Liverpool F.C. Accused of 'Betrayal' in Anfield Road Closure Dispute

Liverpool F.C. has been accused of a 'betrayal of trust' with the community around Anfield after the club's plans to permanently close Anfield Road to cars were put on hold.

What happened?

The Reds had hoped to shut the road for good following the completion of work on the new stand at their stadium. Part of the highway on Anfield Road between Alroy Road and Skerries Road was initially closed in the summer of 2021 as work got underway to expand the stand.

Why it matters for Liverpool F.C.

Community leaders have pushed back on the plans, with some accusing the club of betraying the community in its hope to keep the road closed for good. Mark Worcester, planning agent on behalf of Liverpool F.C., cited increased threat of attacks using hostile vehicles as a reason for the closure. Merseyside Police supported the changes due to the current national terror threat being rated as substantial.

What comes next?

Consultations by way of surveys issued during the application indicated a lack of support from the community for the scheme, with 66% against the change in September 2024. This rose to 74% in March 2025 when a second questionnaire was issued. Cllr Billy Marrat, who represents Anfield ward, said the new routes taken by drivers around Anfield were causing 'chaos' and that LFC had 'not done themselves any favours' in seeking to keep the road closed.

As of the current Premier League season, Liverpool F.C. sits 5th in the table, with 60 points from 38 games, and a recent form of DLDLW. The team has scored 63 goals and conceded 53, resulting in a +10 goal difference. They are 25 points behind leaders Arsenal in the title race.