Everton have launched a public consultation in their proposed new stadium move.
Plans for the Blues’ relocation to a waterfront venue in the Bramley-Moore Dock were originally forecast to take effect in time for the start of the 2022/23 season.
But Goodison Park chiefs now expect the process to take an additional 12 months than first scheduled as they prepare to start public consultations in November.
Designs and a formal planning application are set to be put forward in late 2019.
Funding for the new stadium could also be provided to Everton by private backers instead of a previous £280 million loan offer from Liverpool City Council.
The local authority struck an agreement to act as a special purpose vehicle to help finance the building of the new arena in the north Liverpool docks.
Everton have outlined the latest stage of their plans, titled ‘The People’s Project’ including transforming both the Bramley-Moore and their existing Goodison site.
Colin Chong, Everton’s stadium development director, said: “We know everyone is very keen to see images of what the stadium might look like and we look forward to sharing them next year.
“We will abide by a careful and considered process that respects all stakeholders’ interests.
“This is a multi-faceted project and it is important that we do everything required to ensure our planning application, when it’s made, stands the best chance of success.
“The club has already carried out a huge amount of work to get us to our current position, making sure any scheme we develop is right for the club, the fans and for the city region as a whole.
“This is a long and methodical process and the public consultation forms an important part of this.”
“This consultation marks a very significant moment as we progress with this project,” added Everton CEO Denise Barrett-Baxendale.
“We would like as many people as possible – and not just football fans – to take part and let us know their views.
“Our ambition is not just to create a new home for a very proud and historic football club.
“But also a new landmark stadium, in an iconic setting, which will deliver huge regeneration benefits for the whole of the Liverpool City Region.
“Everton is committed to delivering an authentic football stadium which responds to Liverpool’s World Heritage Site designation.
“The plans we are developing will respect the historic features of the site and complement its surroundings.”