Mayor Joe Anderson says the city council is willing to lend the club £280m towards the projected £500m cost of the new arena – but some in the city have criticised the plan for being too risky. Tony McDonough reports
One of the first entrepreneurs to breathe new life into Liverpool’s north docklands area has urged the city to get behind Everton FC’s new stadium plan.
And millionaire businesswoman Kate Stewart, who ran the successful Stanley Dock Heritage Market, has praised Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson’s backing of the project.
Last week the Mayor said the council was willing to lend the club £280m towards the projected £500m cost of the new arena, planned for Bramley Moore Dock.
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The council would borrow the money itself, benefiting from ultra-low interest rates and then pass the loan on to Everton. Mayor Anderson claims the 25-year deal could net the council a profit of £7m a year.
It would also boost north city regeneration projects such as Liverpool Waters and 10 Streets – but many people in the city have questioned whether the council should be getting involved.
However, Ms Stewart said building the stadium in the docklands was “mission-critical” to the long term prosperity of North Liverpool.
She was at the Heritage Market’s helm when it attracted thousands of visitors each week and brought in millions to the local economy and she believes the new stadium will help lift the aspirations of people living and working in North Liverpool.
“For too long businesses and residents in the area have experienced real hardship and for many it’s a daily struggle just to get by,” said Ms Stewart.
“As I once oversaw one of Liverpool’s most successful markets, I know bringing in thousands of visitors can have a huge economic impact, which helps drive jobs, investment and housing.
“Joe Anderson and Liverpool City Council deserve real credit for the part they have played in helping turn the stadium plans into reality. This really is too good of an opportunity to turn down.”
The Walton-born businesswoman, who made her fortune through a string of successful beauty salons, is also now the owner of the famous Sandon pub close to Liverpool FC’s Anfield stadium.