Many Everton fans are feeling emotional and nostalgic in advance of the Toffees saying goodbye to Goodison Park for one final time.
There are still many years to go before that day, but that did not stop plenty of fervent Toffees from keeping one eye on the future after a major stadium development update.
The club confirmed on Tuesday that Everton’s planning applications for a new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, as well as a community-led legacy project at Goodison Park, were unanimously approved by Liverpool City Council.
APPROVED: A detailed planning application for a new 52,888 capacity stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock has been approved by Liverpool City Council.
Our Goodison Park plans are being heard next… pic.twitter.com/h3vDHkh4nu
— Everton (@Everton) February 23, 2021
The Secretary of State represents the final planning hurdle before practical moves to build the stadium can officially begin, although that is likely to be a mere formality.
The new 52,888-capacity waterfront stadium will likely be completed by the 2024/25 season according to one projection, whilst Goodison Park and the surrounding area will see upgrades and renovations before then.
Everton chairman Bill Kenwright told the club’s official website: “Whilst today is just one more step in our long journey, it is a very important one,” recognising the long-term infrastructural benefits the developments will bring.
There are also community benefits included in the developments which will help to regenerate parts of Liverpool at large.
Many Everton fans took to Twitter to reflect on the “beautiful” new stadium update…
Twitter: @Everton Am I the only person whose quite sad about this? Goodison is one of the most historic grounds ever… and it’s our home. (@TGT_EFC)
Twitter: @Everton The next few years are going to be emotional https://t.co/8tACTIcWlp (@TheGaryLambert)
Twitter: @Everton It’s a momentous day in the club’s history. (@fozzerbluenose)
Twitter: @Everton What a beautiful picture that is
(@seann1878)
Twitter: @Everton Everton announcing stadium news after another bad result agai…ANG ON. (@nsno_83)
Twitter: @Everton THE CITY IS BLUE (@megxefc)
