Residents and local politicians in Liverpool are expressing strong opposition to Liverpool FC’s proposal to permanently close a section of Anfield Road. This road, situated near the iconic stadium, has been closed to vehicles since 2021 when renovations for the Anfield Road stand began. Although construction was completed in 2024, the club seeks to maintain the closure for cars, provoking accusations of “betrayal” from the community.
Liverpool FC’s Plans
The football club submitted a planning application to Liverpool City Council last week. This application aims to keep the section of Anfield Road between Skerries Road and Alroy Road permanently closed to motorists. Local residents are unhappy about this decision, as they expected the road would reopen following the completion of the stadium upgrades.
Community Reaction
- Deborah Shepley, a resident of Alroy Road, stated that the closure causes significant inconvenience for local drivers.
- Dean Wilson, another nearby resident, noted that the additional travel costs and time due to the road closure are burdensome.
- A local woman, speaking anonymously, expressed frustration, asserting that promises made during construction have been broken.
Residents believe they were misled about the future use of Anfield Road. Many share a sentiment of betrayal as the road’s permanent closure contradicts earlier assurances from the club.
Political Support for Residents
Local councillors, including Billy Marat and Lena Simic, have voiced their opposition. They insist that the road should remain open, arguing that resident concerns were ignored during the planning process. They claim that Liverpool FC is deviating from their agreements made during public consultations.
Safety Concerns Raised by Liverpool FC
In their defense, Liverpool FC has cited security risks as a reason for the proposed closure. They claim that the shift in traffic patterns since 2021 has not adversely affected safety or capacity in the area. Moreover, they suggest that closing the road will enhance pedestrian access to Stanley Park and accommodate an increase in foot traffic due to events like concerts.
Next Steps
The application will undergo Liverpool Council’s standard planning review process. This will include a public consultation phase where local residents will be informed and able to voice their objections. Decision-makers will evaluate the proposal based on its planning merits and alignment with local and national policies.
As the situation unfolds, the feelings of betrayal among the community raise questions about the relationship between Liverpool FC and the surrounding residents. Local leaders remain committed to advocating for the concerns of their constituents and ensuring that promises made during initial planning discussions are upheld.
