Everton considering Goodison Park & new stadium options

An artist's impression of the proposed 50,000-seat stadium

Everton chief executive Robert Elstone says they are still looking into the possibility of building a new stadium, as well as redeveloping Goodison Park.

Plans for a £400m stadium in Kirkby were rejected in November, but Everton are considering all of their options.

"We've met with developers and land owners and we've commissioned a fresh look at Goodison Park with a highly recommended architect," said Elstone.

"I hope we are able to report progress in the near future."

The government rejected Everton's proposed £400m stadium and retail development after concerns were raised over the possible harmful effects on the "vitality and viability" of local communities.

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The development would have seen Everton move from Goodison Park in Liverpool to the 50,000-seat stadium in Kirkby as part of a complex with a Tesco superstore and other shops.

But, following a public inquiry in 2009, communities secretary John Denham decided that the move would breach shopping policy which discourages major supermarket chains from taking business away from town and city centres.

Everton are continuing to have discussions with the local authorities as they pursue every avenue.

"There are many examples of council-led or partnered stadium developments in football over the course of the past decade," added Elstone.

"We hope, between us, we can create a scheme which, in the first instances, passes our basic test of 'affordability' and, ultimately, becomes a reality.

"Several sites have been identified. All are familiar to us and all had been assessed previously but this doesn't mean we'll come to the same conclusions as circumstances change.

"The economy, in all respects, changes from day to day and we have to refresh our conclusions and look for new opportunities."