With a move to the Bramley-Moore docks in mind, Everton have invited the fans to provide their feedback on what are the design elements they would like to see taken into consideration for the new stadium.
While not unprecedented, this is a an excellent public relations move from the club to ensure that the fanbase is having it’s voice heard as Dan Meis continues to work on his initial designs.
In a media release today on the club site, here are some of the viewpoints the fans have on the new home for the Blues.
Thousands of fans completed the survey earlier this summer, with more than half stressing the importance of a clear ‘Home End’, close proximity of fans to the pitch, steep stands as well as a continued tribute to Dixie Dean and reference to the Archibald Leitch style.
The proximity of fans to the action has been a key point for the fans especially in the light of the poor atmosphere observed at West Ham United’s London Stadium and Stoke City’s Bet365 Stadium.
Maintaining and surpassing the level of atmosphere achieved at Goodison Park was considered the single most important factor by fans – with improved facilities for refreshments and sight lines also being listed as key factors.
Respondents to the survey also rated the capacity of the new ground in the top three most important factors, identifying larger capacity stadiums such as Old Trafford, Wembley, the Camp Nou and Millennium Stadium among their favourites.
Speaking about the club’s observations from the survey, Everton chief executive Robert Elstone said -
“This feedback is a really important step in our consultation process with our fans. And there’s a clear message from our supporters; developing a stadium that provides intimacy, intensity and atmosphere is paramount, while at the same time ensuring all the qualities associated with modern stadia are delivered.
“This message validates the guidance that we’ve given to our designers and has been really important in shaping our Key Principles document – a document which will be made public in the next few weeks to set out our ambitions for our new home at Bramley Moore Dock.
“It’s crucial that supporters continue to support us with feedback and ideas – it doesn’t matter how old you are, how long you’ve been a Blue, where you sit at Goodison Park, or even if you are able to attend matches or not – we’re looking for input from you all.”
You too can have your say in the design of the new stadium if you haven’t already, ensure you click here to sign up and receive invitations to online surveys and consultation events.