Everton chief exec blames Liverpool council for lack of progress on new stadium

The chief executive of Everton FC has launched a broadside at Liverpool City Council, blaming the authority for a lack of progress with the club’s new stadium.

According to the BBC, Robert Elstone said Everton “cannot do it on its own” and needs the council to commit to investing in the new ground at Walton Hall Park, plans for which were revealed in September last year.

Speaking to EFC shareholders at a meeting in Liverpool’s Philharmonic Hall, Mr Elstone said he believes it will be hard for the club to bring to the project to fruition without the city council.

He said: “This is about regeneration of north Liverpool. It’s a big prize for Everton but an even bigger prize for the city.”

“If the onus is on us to deliver it we can’t do it in isolation.”

However, Liverpool mayor Joe Anderson, who said he had not yet received detailed proposals for the new stadium, responded on Twitter: “Re EFC, CEO comments at AGM that they are ready on stadium. I am looking forward to receiving their planning and financial proposals tomorrow.”

In a statement, the mayor pointed out that the local authority helped the Toffees purchase their Finch Farm training ground.

Mr Anderson continued: “We are trying to find a solution, so to say we are not working in partnership is an insult.”

“We are still willing to talk but to say they have not got true partnership is not helpful.”

Last week, the Blues posted a record turnover and attendance figures for the 2014/15 year.