“The crux of this case is whether the conflicts with policy and the dis-benefits of the scheme relating to ‘town centre and retail’ considerations outweigh or are outweighed by the benefits associated with ‘economic and regeneration’ considerations,”.

“Overall, it is concluded that the development will deliver a number of benefits that will help address the socio and economic disparities and improve quality of life for the people of Kirkby.”

Officials stated that they are “conscious of the planning weight and importance to be attached to the conflicts with retail and town centre related policies”.

“However, it is considered that the immediate need for regeneration to address the severe levels of deprivation within Kirkby, the recognition that a ’step change’ is required and the real benefits that have been identified to flow from the scheme are such to outweigh those retail/town centre policy conflicts.”

“We are absolutely delighted with the outcome, and I think the fact the vote was in no way close - 20 to 1 - shows that the Knowsley Borough councillors are ready to embrace the regeneration of the Kirkby area,” Everton chief executive Keith Wyness told the club’s official website.

“This is another major step forward for us as a football club as we seek to find a new home.”

Ian Ross, spokesman for Everton, said: “Obviously we are very pleased. That is another hurdle clear. That leaves us with one. We want to avoid a call-in by the Government.

“It was particularly rewarding that planning committee members voted 20 to one in favour. There were 21 members of the committee and 20 voted for the plans and the recommendation and one against.

“Every conceivable aspect affecting match days has been looked at from the environment, parking and the transportation of fans from Merseyside.

“We spent two years looking into this. Quite clearly the vast majority of the planning committee were quite happy with the reports sent to them.”