Everton’s New Era: Bramley-Moore Dock Unveiled

Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium has opened up, mixing history with modern flair. Fans are loving it, but not everything went off without a hitch.

February 18, 2025
7:39 pm

It was a chilly Monday night on Merseyside, but for Everton fans, it was the start of an exciting new chapter. After years of waiting, the club’s stunning new home at Bramley-Moore Dock finally opened its doors, giving 10,000 lucky supporters a sneak peek of the future.

Four years in the making and costing over £750 million, Everton will fully move into their state-of-the-art stadium this summer, just in time for the 2025-26 season. And wow, what a sight it is!

As you approach from Liverpool’s Dock Road, the stadium’s size hits you. There’s no sneaking up on this place like Goodison Park, which was tucked away among Victorian houses. Instead, Bramley-Moore stands proudly by the waterfront, a beautiful mix of steel, red brick, and modern design, blending the club’s history with a fresh new vibe.

Across the street, the Bramley Moore pub was buzzing, its walls shaking to Elton John’s “I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues” as fans gathered in excitement.

“It’s out of this world,” grinned Andy, a lifelong Everton fan and Goodison season-ticket holder who’s already got his seat at the new ground. “We couldn’t have asked for better. It’s going to be the envy of everyone.”

The change is incredible. Just three and a half years ago, this was an active dock. Over three months, a dredger made 130 trips into the Irish Sea, bringing in 480,000 cubic meters of sand to create a solid base for the stadium. Now, Everton’s new home is ready—a massive 52,888-seater that will be the seventh-largest stadium in the Premier League and a key venue for Euro 2028.

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Even with all its modern features, the stadium holds onto tradition. Old railway tracks have been kept, the Grade II-listed hydraulic tower has been restored, and the iconic latticework design of Archibald Leitch—still seen at Goodison—has been included in the brickwork.

Monday’s match, an under-18s game against Wigan Athletic, saw only the South Stand open—a tall, steep structure that will eventually hold 14,000 passionate Blues fans. Inside, fans had plenty of tasty options: classic matchday pies next to Korean sticky chicken and salt-and-pepper subs. But the biggest hit? ‘The Toffees doughnut,’ leaving many fans with smudges of royal blue icing on their lips.

A huge glass window runs the length of the stand, giving a stunning view of the Liverpool skyline. “You don’t get that at Anfield,” joked a steward with a knowing smile.

Excitement grew as fans climbed the steps, soaking in the new view. “It’s a spine-tingling moment,” said Tom, a soon-to-be season ticket holder, standing with his son, Elliott. “Goodison was special, but it’s time to move on.”

Inside, the steepness of the stands really stands out, designed to keep fans close to the action. Big screens and a booming PA system promise an electric atmosphere. When the players came out to the familiar tune of Z-Cars, just like they have at Goodison for over fifty years, it was a moment that gave everyone chills.

As for the football, Wigan’s Harrison Rimmer—a lifelong Liverpool fan—made history by scoring the stadium’s first goal, cheekily holding up six fingers to honor Liverpool’s six European Cups. Cole Simms soon doubled the visitors’ lead before 16-year-old Ray Robert scored a penalty for Everton late in the game. But the score didn’t matter—this night was all about making memories.

“It’s breathtaking,” said Dave, another Goodison regular making the switch. “Goodison is our spiritual home, but you can’t fault this. It brings us up to date with the best.”

Challenges to Address

Not everything went perfectly, though. Some fans had travel issues, especially at Sandhills station—the closest rail stop—where overcrowding raised safety concerns.

Liverpool councillor Richard Clein pointed out “major safety issues” and criticized the planning, but officials have promised improvements. A spokesperson for the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority assured fans that test events like this are meant to sort out any logistical hiccups before the stadium fully opens.

Meanwhile, parking restrictions around the ground have stirred up some controversy, with local businesses worried that a proposed permit system will hurt them. The council insists the plan is still under review, and changes can be made before any final decision.

Despite these early bumps, the mood is mostly positive. Everton’s new home is here, and it’s amazing. After years of uncertainty, financial struggles, and relegation battles, this could be the start of something truly special on the banks of the Mersey.