Liverpool FC stadium extension approved by council

Liverpool Football Club said its plans for the proposed redevelopment of the Anfield Road Stand have been given the green light by Liverpool City Council’s planning committee.

The redevelopment will increase the stadium’s capacity by around 7,000, taking Anfield’s overall limit to more than 61,000.

Liverpool FC is owned by Fenway Sports Group (FSG), which also owns Major League Baseball’s Boston Red Sox.

“As part of the application, the club has also been awarded permission to hold up to six concerts and major events at the stadium for a period of five years,” said Liverpool.

“The plans for the proposed Anfield Road Stand were the subject of two stages of public consultation with local residents, businesses, fans and stakeholders.

“The first stage included the permanent closure of a small section of Anfield Road, in line with the original planning permission granted in 2014.

“After listening to feedback on this option, the club made changes to the plans.

“A second stage of consultation was held in February 2020, where the club presented new and updated plans to keep Anfield Road open, with the road re-aligned around the footprint of the proposed expanded stand.”

Liverpool FC managing director Andy Hughes said: “This is a huge milestone in our journey towards bringing more supporters into Anfield. We underwent a rigorous two-stage public consultation period during the planning process for this project and I would like to thank everyone who has offered a contribution to that.

“We have been clear from the beginning that this expansion would be based on our ability to successfully navigate the complex planning landscape; our ability to gain co-operation of local residents and the community; and our ability to ensure the project is financially viable.

“In what has been a very unpredictable year, we are seeking certainty in order to progress with this project and there are still some steps we need to take to get there.”