Liverpool have confirmed they are planning to submit the necessary paperwork over new plans to develop Anfield after previously applying for planning permission.
The Reds revealed on their website that they would let their current permission, secured back in 2014, lapse as they look to work on developing their ground and the surrounding area to a larger scale.
The statement reads: “Liverpool Football Club today reaffirms its intention to redevelop the Anfield Road stand with ambitious new plans.
“Existing outline planning permission will be allowed to lapse in order to allow work to continue on alternative options with a view to submitting a new planning application for a larger scheme in due course.”
The original planning permission had been given to develop both the Main Stand, adding 8,500 seats, and the Anfield Road end, where an extra 4,800 seats would be added.
The main stand development was completed in 2016, giving Anfield a capacity of 54,074, but construction had not begun on the Anfield Road end.
Opinion
For most Liverpool fans, Anfield is their second home and it seems as though the club want to make sure that the facilities are up to scratch. For so many years, the size of the ground was lacking in comparison to size of the club and a 60,000 capacity is much more befitting of Liverpool’s reputation. It might mean waiting a little bit longer to secure planning permission and the other necessary paperwork but you can be sure it will be worth it in the end. Some might ask why Liverpool did not choose to follow in the footsteps of Arsenal, Tottenham, West Ham and eventually Merseyside rivals Everton in moving to a brand new stadium. Liverpool will point to the European nights, derby days against Manchester United and the other matches that make up the history at Anfield. It is all well and good having a brand new stadium, but there are few other grounds like Anfield.
