A public inquiry into plans to build a new development which includes a 50,000-seat stadium for Everton Football Club, housing and a supermarket will start today.

Everton could be forced to call an extraordinary general meeting by fans opposed to their move to a new stadium in Kirkby.

Everton’s search for a suitable site for a new stadium could still swing back within the Liverpool city boundaries, according to city council leader Warren Bradley.

Everton chairman Bill Kenwright has stated his wholehearted support for David Moyes as the club explores the possibility of relocating to a new stadium in nearby Kirkby.

Everton, Tesco and Knowsley Council have entered into an agreement to investigate a major regeneration initiative in Kirkby, which could include a new Everton football stadium, a Tesco superstore and other community and retail facilities.