A new era begins - what do you think?
- Published
Everton's magnificent new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock opened its doors for the first time to 10,000 lucky Toffees fans successful in a ballot for an under-18s friendly against Wigan.
Four years in the making and at an estimated cost of more than £750m, the club will move in fully over the summer in time for the start of the 2025-26 season.
The 52,888-capacity ground will be the seventh-biggest in the Premier League and has been selected to host matches at Euro 2028. It is hoped the project will contribute an estimated £1.3bn to the local economy.
There are nods to the past everywhere. The old railroad tracks and Grade II-listed Victorian hydraulic tower have been painstakingly restored. The latticework design by renowned Scottish architect Archibald Leitch, still present on two of the four stands at Goodison Park, is incorporated into the brickwork.
Just one stand was open for Monday's game - the steep-tiered South Stand that will eventually house 14,000 people. Inside there is row upon row of food and drinks stands. You can find your standard football fare - the three flavours of pies are selling well. But also on the menu is Korean sticky chicken and salt and pepper chicken subs.
What is your verdict on the stadium, Toffees fans? Were you one of the lucky ones there on Monday, or do you know someone who was there?
Everton's new home sits on the banks of The River Mersey
The Toffees will move in for the 2025-26 season