MP BACKS KIRKBY MOVE

Everton's planned move to Kirkby has been backed by the town's MP.

The Member of Parliament who represents Kirkby has backed Everton's planned move to the town.

Everton plan to build a new stadium in Kirkby as part of a multi-million pound development that also includes a Tesco retail store.

George Howarth, MP for Knowsley North, said he would not be asking the Government to 'call in' the proposal, which would delay the project for at least a year.

In a letter to his constituents, Mr Howarth outlined a host of additional benefits the move would have for the area.

He said: "I have given a great deal of thought as to whether or not I should request the Department for Communities and Local Government to call in the application. If this were to happen, it would leave Kirkby in limbo for at least a year and it could even jeopardise the whole project."

Everton Chief Executive Keith Wyness welcomed Mr Howarth's backing.

"Having spent a considerable amount of time discussing the 'Destination Kirkby' project both with Mr Howarth and with the people of Kirkby, we are very pleased to hear that he has now thrown his weight behind what is a hugely-ambitious scheme," he said.

"I believe that he has been impressed by the wide range of benefits which will be on offer from what we believe will prove to be a very fruitful relationship between the people of Kirkby and both Everton Football Club and Everton in the Community.

"Like Mr Howarth we are also concerned about the possible long-term ramifications of a Government 'call-in'. However, we do remain confident that the project will be given the go-ahead."

Mr Howard continued: "The last few weeks have seen a number of developments which shed considerably more light on the proposals and Tesco has made a number of commitments that will bring real benefits to local people."

The MP explained that Everton and Tesco's planned development would bring benefits such as guaranteed jobs for locals, improved transport options and a revived town centre including a new NHS walk-in centre.

"Putting Kirkby at the heart of Merseyside is good for Kirkby and the sustainable level of retail development which it brings will benefit the whole of Merseyside," continued Mr Howarth, who explained that both Everton and Tesco had been cooperative and worked with all parties to produce a mutually beneficial planning proposal.

"This proposal represents a once in a generation opportunity to breathe new life into Kirkby town centre. We have within our grasp the chance to halve unemployment in the area, better healthcare facilities and a new Merseytram," added Mr Howarth.

24 April 2008