Everton Football Club's ambitious strategy to stage large-scale outdoor events and concerts at its new Bramley-Moore Dock home has encountered a significant hurdle. A formal objection from a neighbouring business has been lodged against the club's licensing application, casting doubt on plans to utilise the expansive fan plaza area year-round.
Details of the Licensing Bid
The club is seeking a premises licence from Liverpool City Council for the area surrounding the 52,769-capacity Hill Dickinson Stadium, including the external fan plaza known as 'The Plaza'. This outdoor space can accommodate up to 17,000 guests and is envisioned as a versatile venue for concerts, boxing shows, and other major events outside of matchdays.
According to the application, Everton wants permission to provide live entertainment and sell alcohol in this area from 8am until 11:30pm. On regular matchdays, the plaza currently opens three hours before kick-off. The club confirmed it began taking bookings for non-matchday events last summer, following a successful inaugural season that included hosting a Rugby League Ashes Test Match.
Formal Objection from Local Enterprise
The plans have now been formally challenged. A business operating near the new dockland stadium has submitted a written objection to the council's licensing and gambling sub-committee. The proprietor, who remains unnamed in public documents, raised serious concerns about the potential frequency of road closures and the impact on commercial operations.
The business argues that road closures, similar to those implemented for football matches, would likely be required for these events, effectively forcing its closure. The statement highlights a critical issue: "How will my business operate given that there are heavy vehicles delivering and collecting timber products including for third party building contractors?"
The objector also expressed frustration at a perceived lack of consultation, stating: "As there has been no prior consultation with my business, I can only assume Everton FC have not considered the effect these events will have on my business."
Political Scrutiny and Next Steps
The objection has prompted local political figures to call for a pause. Councillor Dave Hanratty, who represents the Waterfront North ward where the stadium is located, has requested the plans be put on hold for further examination. This development means Everton officials will now have to present their case directly to the city's licensing authorities to overcome the opposition.
The club's vision is to host a variety of events in The Plaza throughout the year, generating crucial additional revenue. However, balancing this ambition with the legitimate concerns of existing local businesses and residents presents a complex challenge for the club and Liverpool Council as they aim to maximise the economic potential of the landmark waterfront development.
