7 Aug 2008Kirkby stadium project delayed as plans called in

Football Leagues/ Association and Governance | Football Supporters News | Football Technology and Stadia

Government officials have called in Everton's plans for a proposed move to a new stadium in Kirkby.

It is likely to delay the construction of the project which has caused controversy among fans who do not want the club to move outside the borders of Liverpool.

A statement from the club said it was disappointed by the decision that will see a public inquiry examine the plans.

"It is important to stress that this decision does not spell the end of the Destination Kirkby project - but it will, self-evidently, precipitate a period of reflection, assessment and re-evaluation," it said.

The Department for Communications and Local Government revealed that cases are called in because they may trigger one or more of the criteria, which include conflict with national policy and causes of national or regional controversy.

An inquiry will now be held for the next 12 months, meaning that Everton's plans have been dramatically pushed back.

The investigation will consider the merits of the application.

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