Bootle’s ambitious expression of interest for Town of Culture 2028 will be backed by major investment plans for Salt and Tar, including the creation of a high-quality, multi-use indoor events space alongside its existing outdoor venue.
A feasibility study commissioned by Sefton Council into the future of Salt and Tar has highlighted the need for permanent, high-quality infrastructure to support Bootle’s cultural ambitions. That commitment will now form part of the town’s expression of interest, showing how further investment in cultural infrastructure can help deliver a stronger, more sustainable offer for local communities.
Planned alongside the site’s growing outdoor events space, the proposed covered indoor venue would help establish a year-round cultural programme in Bootle. The flexible new facility would build on the success of Salt and Tar’s first full event seasons, which have quickly made the site a focal point for residents and visitors while helping to transform perceptions of Bootle town centre.
The vision for the venue also includes rehearsal and recording spaces to support grassroots artists in Bootle, across Sefton and beyond.
As part of the ongoing redevelopment of Bootle Strand, the Salt and Tar site is already being expanded, with capacity set to increase to around 5,000 people. These improvements will be in place when events return to the town centre location following completion of the current works.
This expansion, combined with permanent infrastructure, upgraded outdoor facilities and the proposed indoor venue, will open the door to larger and more ambitious events in the years ahead. It will also support a commercially sustainable, integrated programme of activity throughout the year, forming an important part of the Strand’s wider business plan and helping position Bootle as a vibrant cultural destination.
As the project develops, the ambition is for Salt and Tar to attract new visitors, support local businesses and create more opportunities for communities to take part in Bootle’s cultural life and wider regeneration.
The future development of Salt and Tar is expected to act as a catalyst for wider change, increasing footfall in the town centre while championing local talent, celebrating Bootle’s identity and strengthening its year-round events offer.
The long-term vision is for Bootle to continue building its reputation as a town of culture, where creativity, participation, enjoyment and local pride help shape the next chapter of its story.
Cllr Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said:
“Salt and Tar has already shown what’s possible when we invest in culture, creativity and our communities.
Our ongoing work reinforces the importance of creating the kind of permanent, high‑quality infrastructure that can support a year‑round programme and strengthen our Town of Culture ambitions for Bootle.
Salt and Tar is becoming a catalyst for the event led regeneration of Bootle, and these plans mark another important step in shaping a vibrant, confident and proud future for the town.”
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