Liverpool’s managing director Ian Ayre has again told how the club’s preferred option is to remain at Anfield and redevelop the stadium rather than move to a new stadium in Stanley Park.
Speaking at a recent fans committee meeting, Ayre, said “Would we like to stay in the spiritual home of Liverpool, then the answer is yes.”
Ayre was being asked for more news regarding the decision to be made between the two options – the second of which only seems possible should a naming rights partner be found for the new stadium.
He explained that “People are desperate for us to announce that we are staying, but matters are simply beyond our control, such as the situation with the local housing and the ownership thereof.”
Ayre explained that recent developments in the local are have helped the club lean towards the refurbishment of Anfield but that it would be “irresponsible” for the club to announce its future plans.
“We are involved in a detailed and extensive regeneration project of the area that involves numerous stakeholders, including the City Council, property owners and local housing associations” he explained.
“As these discussions move forward and progress is made, Liverpool Football Club staying at Anfield may become a greater reality.”
“However, until such times as the situation, one way or another, becomes clearer, the club cannot make a definitive statement as to whether it will remain at Anfield or move to a new stadium.”
Regarding any new stadium, Ayre again reiterated that a naming rights partner is essential to this becoming a reality.
“A move will only work if all the pieces fit together and the club achieves a sponsorship deal for naming rights that will pay for the new build.”
A recent report in the Liverpool Echo stated that the club have been given more time to make up its mind over whether to move to a new stadium or stay at Anfield but that no new deadline has been set.
Last month John Henry tweeted a link to local architect Peter McGurk’s blog on a proposed Anfield redevelopment.
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