Prime Minister Gordon Brown sparks confusion in Skelmersdale by backing Kirkby stadium scheme
Dec 10 2009 by
Michael Byrne,
Skelmersdale Advertiser
A SKELMERSDALE campaigner fears Gordon Brown’s statements backing Everton’s move to Kirkby has increased residents’ confusion over what is happening with the town.
Two weeks ago communities secretary John Denham rejected the Tesco/Everton project for Kirkby claiming it would take business away from other local town centres.
But now Gordon Brown has backed a revised scheme to see the stadium built in time for England to host the world cup.
West Lancashire Council criticised the original Kirkby scheme saying it would have a detrimental effect on the Skelmersdale Vision project which aims to regenerate the town.
Hazel Scully and her colleagues have always always supported moves to regenerate the town centre.
But they have lobbyed the council over parts the scheme which will lead to the demolition of about 180 homes in Firbeck and Findon.
She said: “This move by Gordon Brown will only increase people’s confusion over what is happening.
“They have asked me what this will mean but I can’t give them an answer.
North West minister Phil Woolas said: “The government is committed to the regeneration of both Kirkby and Skelmersdale and we will be working behind the scenes with all parties to see if we can take forward a Plan B.
West Lancashire MP Rosie Cooper said: “This is good news for Kirkby.ŠŠIŠhaveŠalways supported the regeneration of Kirkby alongside the redevelopment of Skelmersdale. I believe there should be a more proportional development for the town.”