Mayor Rotheram responds to criticism over transport problems for Everton’s new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium after a test event.
A new parking zone caused much controversy. Businesses say it hurts them badly and that the zone applies every day, not just game days. A petition got 15,000 signatures. Liverpool Council might change the scheme.
Sandhills station also had big problems. Ten thousand fans attended the test event Monday, resulting in the station becoming very overcrowded. Some fans called it a “terrifying” situation. A fenced “fan zone” drew criticism.
The Everton Fans’ Forum wrote to Rotheram and the city, wanting answers before the next test, which about 25,000 people will attend. Their letter mentioned parking and station issues, claiming Rotheram ignored them before.
Rotheram replied on social media. His office will meet the Fans’ Forum, and they will work with Everton, the council, and Merseyrail to address the concerns. He wants safe, efficient travel to the stadium.
Fans responded with more criticism, with one asking where he was during planning and another saying the test event proved it would not work. A fan described Monday as a joke, citing a lack of planning and fan safety concerns. Key questions are still with regional authorities.