The new stadium of Everton is planned to be constructed at the Bramley-Moore Dock, situated on the River Mersey in the port of Liverpool. In 2019, Everton submitted a design for a stadium (see the video below) to be constructed on the dock, however, the initial plans have been changed and certain modifications have been applied.
The design alterations that are suggested included:
1. Establishing a new stepped plaza on the stadium's west stand that will provide an excellent view of the Mersey River.
2. Removing a multi-story parking lot.
3. Altering the position of certain solar panels. Initially, panels were decided to be installed outside the west stand of the stadium, however, designers suggested that it would be better to place them on the roof so more space can be provided.
4. Decreasing the height of the stadium to tackle concerns about the iconic character of the dock. Bramley-Moore Dock is located within the Liverpool Maritime Mercantile City World Heritage Site which includes the historic center and docklands of one of the world's largest trading centers in the 18th and 19th centuries. The current height proposed agrees with the guidelines that have been established to preserve the region.
5. Simplifying the design of the stadium's brick facade.
The total capacity of the stadium is expected to reach 52,888 seats and will be part of the Liverpool Waters regeneration project that will cost about $6.40 billion. According to estimates, it will provide a $1.28 billion financial boost in the local economy and create 15,000 job opportunities.
Coling Chong, the stadium's Development Director, stated that the new facility is one of the "most exciting development projects in the country". There will be an aesthetic linkage between the River Mersey and the stadium while the new stepped plaza will be a destination for fans and visitors. "If we are granted planning approval, this will be a world-class football stadium in an iconic location and a key part of the city, city region, and the UK's post-COVID-19 recovery plan," Mr. Chong, mentioned.
Everton officials hope that construction works on the new facility will begin in early 2021 and the stadium should be completed between 2023 and 2024.
The team currently hosts its game at Goodison Park, a historic stadium constructed in 1892. Goodison Park is considered to be the first major football stadium in England. During WW2, it suffered critical damage as it was very close to Liverpool's docks and repairs were implemented as part of the War Damage Commission. In September 1948 and after the repairs were completed, a game with Everton's highest ever attendance (78,299) was hosted.
Sources: EvertonFC, Dailymail, Designbuild-network, NewCivilEngineer
