Expert stone masons from Vetter, a division of the Laing O’Rourke group of enterprises, have started laboriously paving the 30,000 square metre fan plaza, which will operate as the expansive entry to the stadium footprint.
As a feature of the plaza and a geographical reminder of the rich history of the location, the ancient dock walls will continue to be seen.
To replicate the reflection of water shimmering on the surface, blue glass-filled paving stone will be set in contrast within these dock walls.
“It was always the plan to have the dock wall exposed and the area inside these walls will be laid with blue glass Kellen blocks,” stated Gareth Jacques, the director of the Laing O’Rourke project.
There are three varieties of blocks, and during the production process, varying amounts of blue glass are used. When light falls on them, the designer intended for them to resemble sparkling water.
The second phase, which will complete the year-long project to granite pave the large plaza, has started construction. In addition to accommodating thousands of Everton supporters on matchdays, the space can host concerts and non-matchday activities.
Heritage elements from the dock’s heyday, like old railway rails, capstans, mooring bollards and cobblestones, are also scattered around the fan plaza. These features were common when Liverpool’s Docks dominated international trade.
Jacques said, “We devised a 52-week schedule for the hard landscaping and pavement so that we could plan the best possible order for all the other concurrent external works operations. We will have the least amount of traffic feasible on top of the final output thanks to this programme.
“The installation of the railway lines has completed the southern portion of the fan plaza. In addition, our expert restorations team is currently filling in the sporadic granite stone surrounding the pedestrian gates. When finished, this will completely match the Listed wall.
“I believe the fans will have a truly unique and special entrance experience that complements this magnificent stadium when the entire fan plaza and restoration works are finished.”