Liverpool’s New Plans for Anfield Spark Outrage Among Councillors

Liverpool Football Club has come under fire once again, this time for its proposed plans to pedestrianise parts of Anfield Road. Local councillor Ellie Byrne has voiced strong opposition, accusing the club of failing to take responsibility for the surrounding area and of breaking promises made to the community.

Councillor Speaks Out Against Anfield Plans

Ellie Byrne, Labour councillor for Everton East, did not hold back in her response to Liverpool FC’s latest planning application, which seeks to pedestrianise sections of Anfield Road permanently. Taking to social media, she declared:

“I will completely and utterly fight against this planning application and oppose it wholeheartedly.”

Byrne went on to express her frustration with the club’s lack of attention to the area’s condition: “LFC have took no responsibility in how our area looks, just look at the roads and general area.”

Although she acknowledged that Liverpool City Council (LCC) also bears some responsibility, Byrne emphasised that the football club, which generates millions in profit, should have a duty of care to the local residents: “A corporation who is making millions of pounds of profit out of our area should have social responsibility… Stop treating our area with contempt.”

This is not just a matter of convenience for Byrne but a promise made by the club. Anfield Road has been closed for years during the stadium’s expansion, and Byrne reminded her followers that it was always intended to return to its former function as a through road. However, with the new plans, it seems Liverpool FC may be going back on their word.

Impact of Pedestrianisation on Anfield

Liverpool FC’s new proposal does not involve further changes to the stadium itself, following the recent expansion of the Anfield Road stand, which added 7,000 seats. However, it would impact the surrounding area, potentially creating more frustration for residents who are already unhappy with the disruption caused by the construction work.

For the past three years, the section of Anfield Road in question has been closed to accommodate the development. Liverpool FC is now suggesting that keeping the road closed permanently could improve the area for match days and events.

Anfield’s Role in Liverpool’s Economy

Liverpool FC has long argued that enhancing Anfield’s role as a venue is essential not only for the club but for the city of Liverpool. Events hosted at Anfield have contributed significantly to the local economy, with performances from global stars such as Taylor Swift bringing in millions. According to reports, these events generated £31.3 million for Liverpool’s economy and created thousands of jobs.

The club may contend that keeping Anfield Road closed could boost the stadium’s accessibility, increasing its potential for future events and revenue, which would benefit the wider community.

Long-Term Consequences for the Anfield Area

While Liverpool FC has big plans for Anfield as a venue, it remains to be seen how the local community will respond to the proposed changes. The stadium’s recent expansion has already caused considerable disruption, and a permanent road closure could further alienate the residents.

As Ellie Byrne suggested, this move might not sit well with those living in the area. As discussions continue, it’s clear that Liverpool FC will need to carefully consider the community’s response to their latest ambitions for Anfield.