Council launches survey over business opportunities from new Everton stadium
Sefton Council has launched a business survey to gather views on how Everton FC’s new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium could help drive economic growth and investment in neighbouring Bootle.
The £800m 52,888-capacity stadium is expected to bring increased visitor numbers to the area and the council said it is keen to explore how Bootle can benefit from this opportunity.
The club has staged two test events, for 10,000 fans and 25,000 fans, respectively, towards gaining a safety certificate for the ground. A third event, at full capacity, is likely in early August.
But new parking restrictions introduced by Liverpool City Council in a wide area surrounding the new stadium has drawn fierce criticism from local residents and businesses, so much so, that the measures have been temporarily suspended, pending public consultation.
The moves limit the parking spaces in the streets and roads in the vicinity of the stadium, forcing more fans to use public transport, which has also led to a backlash over inadequate facilities at Sandhills train station, the closest rail stop to the new ground.
Sefton Council said Bootle has seen a significant increase in footfall from the recent test matches, and car park figures outlined that there was a 58% increase in cars in the Strand car park, on the previous week.
Local business have also expressed that they had an uplift in footfall during test matches.
The survey seeks the views of local businesses on a range of topics, including transport opportunities, such as shuttle and bus services, business growth potential, increased footfall and spending on matchdays, and wider impacts on Bootle’s growing Salt and Tar event programme, to the rear of the Strand shopping centre and close to Bootle New Strand rail station.
Cllr Marion Atkinson, leader of Sefton Council, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to shape Bootle’s future and ensure we make the most of the opportunities the new Everton stadium brings.
“From transport links to economic growth, we want to hear from our businesses on what would help them thrive and how we can create a vibrant and welcoming town centre.”
The council is encouraging local businesses of all sizes and sectors to take part in the survey.
The insights gathered will help inform future planning and investment decisions, ensuring Bootle is well placed to benefit from increased activity and investment linked to the stadium.
The survey is open now and can be accessed online until Friday, May 30, at: https://yourseftonyoursay.sefton.gov.uk/invest-sefton/5a01ac84
