There’s a custodian role, a vital role for Everton Football Club in ensuring the best and safest possible travel experience to and from a football match for all supporters. Equally there is a custodian role, as well as legal responsibilities, for local authorities to ensure the safe, secure and appropriate transit of fans whilst looking after the needs of residents and local businesses.
The flurry of activity, the media presence of the Metro Mayor, Steve Rotheram, the involvement of fan representative groups, Everton Football Club facilitating and issuing a rare public statement on the transportation issues, including genuine health and safety concerns for those making the journey to and fro from the Everton Stadium at Bramley-Moore contrasts hugely with the activity levels of previous years and months.
It is important to stress that there’s nothing to be gained from apportioning blame as to the current totally unsuitable travel arrangements. The fact is that this issue has been hiding in plain sight ever since the initial planning documents were submitted for approval on December 23rd 2019. The focus then, and for much of the planning process was very much on heritage issues and the widest possible public engagement seeking support for building a new stadium on what was an incredibly sensitive world heritage site. Little attention was given to the practicalities of the stadium’s location.
The world has changed since those heady days. Covid was a significant factor ultimately pushing up construction costs, lengthening construction time and ultimately leading to a much higher interest rate environment than was ever envisaged at the time. It is difficult to envisage that if the project was put forward today that there would be a business case for it, in that location and with the lack of supporting infrastructure.
In addition to the macro events of Covid, Everton had its own crises driven by Moshiri’s appalling management, the invasion of Ukraine and Everton’s consistent underperformance on the pitch.
It is possible that such was the magnitude of Everton’s fight for survival and the lack of management bandwidth, particularly at board level, that little attention was given to matters such as transportation.
It is a background that perhaps explains why we are in the situation we are today. The stadium complete, but standing in near perfect isolation in terms of its connectivity to the city and existing infrastructure.
There is of course, another factor – the complete absence of meaningful investment around the stadium. Despite all the difficulties described above, the progress of the stadium construction and the likelihood of its successful completion increased month by month, quarter by quarter, year by year.
The reality of the current situation
The reality of the current situation is we find ourselves, all of the interested parties, scrambling to provide short term “make do” solutions to mitigate the lack of transport infrastructure and recent policy announcements such as the Liverpool City Council’s initial “experimental” parking proposals.
The short term mitigation strategies must continue and there must be the maximum amount of participation by fan groups and fan representatives. The range and scope of the short term solutions have to be expanded both in terms of number and scale.
The focus has largely been on Sandhills Station and in a sense, quite rightly so given the health and safety concerns and Sandhills’ total lack of suitable facilities to house and move a significant proportion of the 53,000 fans attending Bramley-Moore. However, Sandhills and Merseyrail are only partial solutions.
The additional measures include greater bus provision, soccer buses, park and ride schemes utilising Stanley Park and other parking facilities, plus the easing of parking restrictions for blue badge holders. In addition, much more information regarding alternative travel hubs – Bootle as against Liverpool City Centre for example.
For those fit, able and willing walking is presented as the only alternative option. Some have pointed out that walking is a key element in the existing travel arrangements of fans visiting Goodison. Whilst this is true, the 25% increase in capacity and the genuine safety concerns of walking poorly lit roads, many of which are in poor condition – paving, potholes and raised kerbs for example plus the greater isolation of Bramley-Moore makes walking an entirely different proposition.
Yet, the reality is, that the above measures are the only realistic short term solutions. The football club, fan groups and representatives and the local authorities must prioritise a massive improvement and expansion of these solutions before the start of our first season at Bramley-Moore, less than six months away.
Longer term solutions
The amount of investment to date, in terms of supporting infrastructure, given the scale of the challenges (an opportunities) the stadium presents is pitifully small. There will be (and have been) reasons presented for this. It’s understood entirely the financial position of the local authorities, the inability of Everton (pre Friedkin acquisition) to provide anything other than a minimal cash contribution (£1.6 million).
Yet, the inescapable truth is that more than £800 million has been spent on the stadium itself – £800 million by a private company! Can you really imagine a scenario whereby any other private business investing £800 million (more than four times its current turnover) into an area starved of investment and desperate for development opportunities would have no central Government or such limited public purse support?
Yes, there are rules around state support, yes there are rules about funding – artificial, arbitrary rules regarding costs and benefits. Yet, no one is asking for a blank cheque. No one is demanding (in central Government terms), outrageous sums of money.
The truth is that infrastructure spending fuels economic growth – as witnessed by the Crossrail project, the future expansion of Heathrow and Gatwick, what remains of the HS2 project. Under the current Treasury orthodoxy, funding for such schemes is justified by a business case, in part, a large part, built on footfall and utilisation of existing assets.
The problem with such is that it ignores those areas that have been left behind, neglected for political, economic or social reasons. Such as North Liverpool.
Where is the bold, decisive, visionary leadership that identifies North Liverpool as a massive opportunity, in part kick started by the Everton stadium? Where in a Labour government committed (at least in manifesto pledges) to economic growth and the so-called levelling up? Where is the local leadership, a broad church of politicians, not just a Metro Mayor, demanding much more for our city, and specifically the infrastructure needs around Bramley-Moore. Where is Everton Football Club and its new owners in demanding so much more?
Our city has contributed so much to this nation’s wealth – over centuries. Our people have provided the blood, sweat and tears that made Liverpool one of the greatest global sea ports for centuries. From such, much of the nation’s wealth and global influence has been created. Does any of this count for anything today?
In cultural terms, Everton’s contribution to football is equally significant. Football, itself, is a huge cultural asset to the UK. It has attracted huge visibility – it’s soft power validated by the degree of foreign State investment in individual clubs, it’s sporting power by the dominance of the Premier League.
We are underselling ourselves
Our city, our football club are huge, huge assets that are massively under-leveraged, it’s value carelessly and negligently, undersold.
This has to change. It can be changed by local politicians, by local businesses, by Evertonians, by the people of Liverpool. Perhaps we have all been guilty of thinking that the building of a stadium, by itself, would pull in the investment, pull in the interest, pull in the commitment of those that can provide the capital and legal frameworks to permit and encourage investment.
Clearly, that in itself is not enough. We have to demand more from all the stakeholders. We have to demand what this, our city deserves, and with my Everton hat on, what the club and its wonderful supporters need.
We can be the catalyst for change, but not in isolation – there are so many others can step up to assist Everton, our city and indeed themselves politically or economically. However, that time is now, we can’t wait for others to do it fo us.
All interested parties must coordinate and act now.
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Excellent piece I listened to Rotherham for a short time unfortunately he is a waste of space all he did was slag EFC Off for not providing the infrastructure to go with the stadium he is a waste of space I feel sorry for the local resident businesses etc who have been neglected by the LCC now they cannot even park by their home etc without a cost implication on street parking fees double yellow lines what a lot of negativity this LCC has brought to the table I despair
Here’s my take on the issue:
The best way forward is a two-pronged strategy: we need to tackle the immediate transport gaps while also planning for long-term infrastructure improvements. In my opinion, this strategy must be built on collaboration—not just within Everton, but with Liverpool FC, local and national governments, and the local community—to truly maximize resources and secure buy-in. Here’s what I’d recommend:
Short-Term Measures (Next 6–12 Months)
As we prepare for the stadium opening, the focus should be on making matchday operations work with the existing infrastructure while we build a foundation for bigger projects later on.
Enhanced Shuttle Bus & Park-and-Ride Services:
I’d push for an expansion of dedicated shuttle bus routes that move fans between the stadium, major transit hubs, and remote parking areas. We’ve seen some successful trials with routes from Lime Street, Liverpool ONE, and Bootle. Scaling these up and possibly partnering with park-and-ride locations (like temporary matchday parking spots) could really ease the pressure around the stadium.
Boosting Rail Capacity & Improved Station Management:
It’s crucial to work closely with Merseyrail to increase train frequency and length on matchdays. Adjusting timetables to run extra trains—and even planning express services from Sandhills Station directly to central areas—would help clear crowds quickly. I also think that fast-tracking improvements at Sandhills (like the new footbridge and extra entrances) should be a top priority. Even temporary fixes such as additional staff or one-way flow systems could help until permanent solutions are in place.
Better Traffic Management & Safety Enhancements:
On matchdays, a comprehensive traffic management plan is non-negotiable. Closing specific roads like Sandhills Lane to general traffic after games can allow fans to move safely to transit points. I also support the idea of implementing temporary traffic-control measures—think extra stewards, police presence, lighting, and clear signage—to keep pedestrian flow smooth and safe.
Encouraging Active Travel & Accessibility:
With the stadium just a 20–30 minute walk from central Liverpool, it makes sense to promote walking and cycling. Providing clear maps, plenty of bike parking, and even volunteer “fan guides” could encourage active travel. For fans who require special assistance, ensuring shuttle buses and dedicated pick-up/drop-off points are available will make a huge difference.
Proactive Communication & Staggered Egress:
Finally, I can’t stress enough how important clear, real-time communication is. Using every channel—emails, social media, the Everton app, and in-stadium announcements—to guide fans on travel options and even encouraging a staggered departure after the match will help alleviate peak-time congestion.
Long-Term Infrastructure & Investment Strategies (2–10 Years)
While short-term fixes are essential, they’re just the start. We need a vision for a fully integrated transport network that supports the stadium and benefits the wider community.
Developing a Dedicated Rail Link or Station:
Imagine a high-capacity transit link specifically serving the stadium—perhaps a new Merseyrail station near Bramley-Moore or even repurposing an old freight line. Given the stadium’s prime location, exploring innovative options like a matchday ferry service could transform the whole experience. This would require strong lobbying and a mix of funding sources, but the payoff would be a fast, direct rail route that dramatically reduces road congestion.
Upgrading Road Infrastructure:
Alongside rail improvements, the roads around North Liverpool need significant upgrades. I’d advocate for better junctions, smart traffic signals on matchdays, and even dedicated bus lanes. Moreover, creating pedestrian bridges or underpasses to safely separate foot traffic from vehicles would further enhance safety and flow.
Sustained Government & Policy Engagement:
Long-term change requires political champions. Establishing a dedicated working group that includes representatives from Everton, local councils, the Combined Authority, and community members can keep the pressure on. This group would lobby for funding and ensure that every piece of the transport puzzle is aligned with broader city and national economic goals—especially with Euro 2028 on the horizon.
Private Sector Partnerships & Innovative Solutions:
With the club’s new ownership and international profile, partnering with tech firms or even ride-sharing companies could lead to creative funding models and innovative transit solutions. Exploring naming rights for new facilities or even “value capture” models, where increased local property values help pay for infrastructure, is a smart long-term play.
Phased Implementation & Flexibility:
I’d suggest breaking the long-term plan into clear phases: starting with immediate fixes at Sandhills, then intermediate projects like park-and-ride sites and additional entrances by Euro 2028, and finally major projects like a new station or comprehensive road upgrades within 10 years. Throughout, it’s important to remain flexible and adapt based on real-world data and fan feedback.
Collaboration with Liverpool FC & Stakeholders
It’s no secret that while Everton and Liverpool FC are fierce competitors on the pitch, we share a common interest in making Liverpool’s infrastructure world-class. I see huge potential for both clubs to work together on initiatives like:
A Unified Voice for Transport Investment:
By joining forces to lobby local and national governments, we can make a compelling case that investing in transport isn’t just about one club—it’s about boosting Liverpool’s overall appeal and economic growth.
Coordinating Matchday Operations:
Sharing best practices in crowd management and scheduling can benefit both clubs. Simple measures, like ensuring we don’t play home games on the same day, can ease pressure on the entire city’s transit system.
Engaging the Community:
Finally, involving the fans and local businesses isn’t just good PR—it’s essential. From forming supporter committees to launching joint community initiatives on sustainable travel, these grassroots actions can help drive change and keep everyone invested in the outcome.
Lee thank you so much for this contribution. I agree with every single word
I think Lee makes some great points.
Whilst it serves no great purpose to point the finger, you can point the finger at the collective for not doing far more Paul.
Why must this be on the back foot?
Why does it have to fail first and then back fill?
Why haven’t some of the obvious improvements been planned, prepared and started?
If it has, let’s see ONE on line app or website where we can all see what has been started, what has already received planning consent, what is ready and awaits consent and what is planned too.
One site, dedicated to the this docks area. Let’s see some plans and imagery of what’s in place already and awaits construction and final consent. And let those with draft plans show us what’s on offer if consent is granted. To be clear, I’m not talking about a private developers view of what might be if they buy the land, get permission etc. I’m talking about detailed updates of what is in place to be done, what’s awaiting final permission and what’s in the planning phase.
Right now you have to visit several sites, none of which show and meaningful answers to the above questions. You have to navigate tedious planning sites to see words that don’t mean a great deal and explore lots of different sites to get an idea of what might be.
That’s not good enough, this is 2025, this data, material and imagery does exist so let one organisation pull it all together so we can see what’s going on, what’s next and where we are.
We’ve got drone operators overlaying cut and paste images of what might be and they are trying to do their best to inform us but this could be done so much better, not by their well intentioned efforts (of which I’m thankful for) but by a responsible authority/organisation dedicated to bringing us the very best news on what is and can be achieved and keeping us updated.
I’m going to bang on about the riverside pathway that starts south of the Albert dock and abruptly stops just north of the new IOM ferry terminal. I’m confident this will be run all the way past BMD and up to Bootle, so why hasn’t this been linked to BMD already? It would greatly allow for the dispersal of walking traffic from the east and west ends of BMD back toward the city in two separate routes and north too when they complete it. It is already a safe and pleasant footpath with some great views across the river right up to the point it stops at the ferry terminal. It seems to answer all the questions about “active travel” (walking), and would allow thousands of fans to leave the stadium on foot along the Dock Road AND the new river walk. It would also service the thousands of planned homes and businesses “planned” for this same area. If it’s in plans to finish it now then the authorities should say so and show us what it would look like (hence the suggestion of the app or website above).
Regards
Keith