Liverpool mayor Joe Anderson expressed his disappointment in lack of solid progress on the Walton Hall Park stadium scheme. It’s been a year since Everton announced their relocation plans.

It was back in September 2014 that Everton confirmed the gossip of relocation plans. Selected plot: Walton Hall Park, the nearest feasible site to Goodison Park. The news sparked protests by local residents, but it still on the table.

Fans and the community are forced to wait for details longer than expected, though. Mayor Joe Anderson suggested he would have an update in October, but as the month ended we’re yet to see progress. The mayor thus released a statement, which we quote in its entirety below:

“The city council and Everton FC are still engaged in discussions about plans to develop a scheme at Walton Hall Park. I am disappointed that at this stage we have not reached agreement on a tangible proposition for a new stadium and, more importantly, a scheme which delivers comprehensive regeneration benefits for the area and employment opportunities for the wider community.

“It has been over 12 months since my initial announcement and I recognise the level of public interest in this site. I would like to thank people for their patience whilst discussions are ongoing and I will look to make a final announcement in the new year.

“I reiterate my commitment that any scheme brought forward, which has my support, will represent the best interests of residents and supporters alike.”