Liverpool FC is seeking permission from Liverpool Council to host major concerts at Anfield, following the success of Taylor Swift's three-night stint last summer. The club announced that Billy Joel, Lana Del Rey and Bruce Springsteen are all set to perform at the stadium this year.
However, a change to current permissions approved by the city council will be needed for the summer concerts to proceed. The stadium currently must have a 31-day respite period when it is not in use, typically in July when home games are unlikely.
The club is now requesting flexibility to stage its six permitted major events during the closed season. Since 2018, Anfield has hosted nearly a dozen live events under its existing provisions, usually in May and June.
An economic contributions report suggests that such events, including Taylor Swift's, could not have been held elsewhere in the city due to lower venue capacities.
A planning statement highlighted that Liverpool FC had garnered insights from concert promoters regarding prime summer dates. It stated: "Anfield stadium has been successful in attracting major global acts to Liverpool, bringing a range of socioeconomic benefits to the local area and the Liverpool city region that weigh in favour of a grant of planning permission."
The 2024 series of five concerts took place between June 3-26, during which only four noise complaints were recorded, alongside eight inquiries about property access by residents.
Since 2018, Anfield has reportedly drawn close to half a million visitors, contributing approximately £31m in additional tourism revenue to the city and bolstering employment. Upcoming performances include Lana Del Rey on June 28 and Bruce Springsteen on June 4 and 7, while Billy Joel is set to entertain on June 21.
The proposals are pending final approval from Liverpool Council's planning department.
Don't miss the latest news and analysis with our regular North West newsletters – sign up here for free
