Liverpool FC

Pictures: Liverpool FC unveil new training ground plans

Liverpool have revealed plans for their new first-team training ground in Kirkby.

Last month the Reds announced the decision to leave their long-standing base at Melwood in order to move to the site of the club’s academy in a £50 million merger.

A public consultation is set to be held at Northwood Community Centre on Wednesday to allow local residents to see the plans and provide feedback.

Ahead of the meeting, Anfield officials have released images of how they envisage the new complex to look upon completion in the 2019/20 season.

Liverpool aim to transform the current academy pitch into an indoor facility while spectators to games held at Kirkby will be housed in a purpose-built stand.

Community-friendly facilities are also set to be created as part of the first-team’s move to Kirkby including new pathways for dog walking and cyclists.

Local clubs such as Kirkby AFC will also benefit from upgrades with Liverpool working to improve their existing pitches and changing rooms.

Jurgen Klopp admitted last month that Liverpool needed to end its half-century association with Melwood in order to progress as a club.

“I love Melwood, but football changes and everything will be bigger,” he said.

“We cannot avoid this. We can’t stay like we always were and hope you can cope with the other teams. Sometimes you have to set standards.

“It’s really good our owners give us the opportunity to make this big step into the future.

“Twenty five years ago Melwood set the level, but in these 25 years some things happened.”