Everton have confirmed their intention to build a new stadium in Walton Hall Park.
Liverpool council will be involved as an official partner, along with housing association Liverpool Mutual Homes, which will build new homes as part of the overall regeneration scheme.
Club chairman Bill Kenwright said: “On my journey to our home games, as I pass Walton Hall Park, I inevitably think that I am only a minute away from our beloved Goodison. For several years now I’ve also thought, if only it was available for our new stadium, it ticks all the boxes.”
It would fill me with great pride, it could be something very special for our city, the residents of North Liverpool and all Evertonians – a new home that goes beyond football and does what Everton does better than anyone else.
“Of course there’s enormous work to do – that again involves fixing a huge financial jigsaw – but we are certain it’s an opportunity we should pursue with great commitment, endeavour and ambition.
“To get every aspect right will take time as well as the continued support we’ve received to date from Joe Anderson and his colleagues at the council.”
Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson said: “The council is going to put some money in and that will be around regeneration, not directly into the football club or stadium without getting a financial or commercial return.”
He said keeping the club in the city and seeing it contribute to the regeneration of the north end of the city was important from an economic and cultural point of view, and that the park was the best option. He added: “The park is probably one of the most under-used in the city, we get complaints about anti-social behaviour and that it’s just used for dog fouling . . . and I think a proposal that enhances a park in that area and provides other facilities, better facilities, is a better opportunity for the city.”
Everton FC chief executive Robert Elstone added: “We are delighted to be the conduit for the council’s commitment to enhancing the outlook of the residents of north Liverpool.
“We are equally delighted to be exploring an opportunity that allows us to reinforce our commitment to our fans.
“We don’t know how long the journey will take but we won’t lack stamina or commitment. It is also essential that we bring fans with us.”