Bootle firms see opportunities in Everton stadium
Businesses in Bootle are planning to capitalise on Everton FC’s new £750m stadium with special offers to tempt in matchday fans, a new survey reveals. Tony McDonough reports
A new survey carried out by Sefton Council reveals businesses in Bootle are keen to capitalise on the opportunities offered by Everton FC’s new stadium.
This month the Blues will kick off the Premier League season at their new £750m home at Bramley-Moore Dock in Liverpool Waters, now called the Hill Dickinson stadium after the Liverpool law firm that has agreed a sponsorship deal.
In May Greg Johnson, managing director of Bootle window and door manufacturer Warwick North West, said the stadium represents a “once-in-a-generation” opportunity for the Bootle and south Sefton economy.
At the time Sefton Council had just launched a survey of local businesses and Greg urged as many as possible to take part.
Now the authority has released the results and found almost all businesses in Bootle (98%), are aware of the new stadium and the significant opportunities it could bring to Bootle.
Three quarters of those who took part also knew about the dedicated shuttle bus service running before and after matches between the Strand Bus Station and the stadium.
Many of the businesses consulted said they are planning to extend opening hours and introduce special matchday offers. This included themed food and drink, and other promotions to attract supporters and visitors.
Sefton Council carried out the survey in partnership with Everton FC to help understand the opportunities and potential impacts of the new stadium development for Bootle.
Since the stadium project began, Sefton Council has been working with Everton, Liverpool City Council and Merseytravel to ensure local businesses and communities can benefit fully from this major investment.
Following two successful test events at the new stadium, with a further match planned for Saturday, August 9, the council invited businesses in Bootle to share their views through an online survey.
This survey was led by InvestSefton, the council’s dedicated business support team. It asked businesses about key issues including transport, parking, themed events and fan zones at Salt and Tar and Lock and Quay and the expected increase in visitor footfall on match days.
Officers also spoke directly with retailers, business owners and social trading organisations in Bootle Strand and along the Stanley Road corridor.
In response to the feedback, Sefton Council has confirmed it will continue to improve directional signage to car parks and public transport links.
It will also monitor the use of parking and shuttle bus services, and provide businesses with practical support around recruitment, marketing and planning for matchday trade.
The Salt and Tar event space next to Bootle Strand has been highlighted as a key location for fan engagement and themed activities. Regular shuttle buses from Bootle Strand ensure it is easy for fans to travel to and from the stadium.
Council officers are already in discussions with Everton FC and Merseytravel to develop further local business opportunities and events linked to the transport hub and nearby parking.
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Cllr Marion Atkison, Leader of Sefton Council, said: “These findings show there is real optimism and ambition among our local businesses.
“We’re committed to working with our partners to make sure this development delivers lasting economic and social benefits for our communities.”