Liverpool reveal next step in Anfield redevelopment

The Premier League side are looking to redevelop their existing ground

Liverpool's home, Anfield (GETTY IMAGES)

Liverpool could be able to submit plans to redevelop Anfield before the end of the season after the next step of the area's regeneration was unveiled.

The Anfield Spatial Regeneration Framework (SRF) published on Thursday provides more details on the club's plans to upgrade the Main Stand and Anfield Road end as well as the city council's attempt to improve housing and job prospects in the surrounding area.

Liverpool City Council will consider the SRF on February 7 and if the draft is approved a four-week public consultation will take place before it can be officially adopted by the council in April.

That would then allow all parties to submit planning applications, although the club have always stressed they have never put a timeline on their proposals for the revamp.

However, the document states it is intended that all of the proposed developments are delivered by 2018.

Managing director Ian Ayre said earlier this week their plans were based on "certainties" and although deals have been agreed for 67 of the 71 properties affected by the stadium plans, the remaining houses have yet to be acquired.

The remaining four properties are owned by two owners and negotiations are still ongoing, but the council has already indicated it will pursue compulsory purchase order (CPO) powers where agreements cannot be reached.

Formal approval of the potential use of such powers could come by the end of February but CPOs are regarded as a last resort.

"The publication of the draft SRF document is another important milestone in the regeneration project as we continue this exciting journey to transform the Anfield area," said Ayre in a statement.

"Any final decision regarding a future stadium expansion continues to be based on certainty - certainty that we can obtain the necessary land around the stadium to facilitate any expansion; certainty that there is demand for any future expansion; certainty that we have home owners' support; and certainty that we will be able to navigate the complex planning landscape.

"We regard the progress to date as extremely positive and will continue to be fully supportive of the regeneration project with Liverpool City Council and Your Housing Group."

PA