Everton have confirmed they will take possession of the Bramley-Moore Dock site, part of Peel L&P’s Liverpool Waters, on Monday 26 July – with contractors Laing O’Rourke immediately beginning the first phase of the project on that date as part of the construction of the 52,888 capacity stadium.
That first phase of the development will be the enabling works to prepare the dock site in readiness for the build.
Work will include the repair and preservation of the Grade II listed dock wall, stabilising of the hydraulic tower located on the site, the development of welfare facilities for Laing O’Rourke construction staff, the preparation for demolition of existing non-listed structures, and raking of the dock floor. Pipework will also be installed that will be used for the infilling of the dock.
Once these works are completed, Laing O’Rourke will begin the process of infilling the dock.
Everton Chairman, Bill Kenwright said: “We are thrilled to be able to confirm that construction work will commence on our new stadium later this month. This will be a momentous day in the history of the Club and is testament to the ambition and financial commitment of Farhad and the determination and talent of Denise and her executive team at the Club.
“Like every Evertonian Goodison Park has been a massive part of my life but in moving forward we could not have found a more fitting nor more glorious site for our new stadium – one which will both honour our history and celebrate our magnificent future.”
Chief Executive, Denise Barrett-Baxendale commented:“This moment will rank as one of the most important in the Club’s history as it symbolises a new era for Evertonians, an era which will see our supporters, their children and their children’s children supporting their team in one of the finest stadiums in world football.
“This project presents such an exciting future for our club and is a clear demonstration of our owner’s commitment and ambition.
“I would like to thank everyone who has played a part in helping us reach this point – my colleagues who have ensured this project has remained on schedule despite the challenging circumstances presented by the pandemic, business leaders and politicians, the people of the city and, of course, our supporters who have given us their unwavering support at every stage of this project.
“I would also like to thank Laing O’Rourke and look forward to working with them and seeing our stunning designs become a reality in the years ahead.”
Everton’s new stadium will deliver a £1bn boost to the city’s economy and provide up to 15,000 jobs for local people (12,000 during the construction phase).
It is estimated that it will attract around 1.4m visitors to the city and more than £255m will be spent through the local supply chains.
It will also accelerate other local development – Liverpool Waters and Ten Streets – worth more than £650m and provide an annual boost of £2.1m in Council Tax receipts and Business Rates income of £1.7m per year.