Everton's plans to build a new stadium have cleared the first hurdle after Liverpool City Council approved the establishment of a scheme to help with funding.
The council's cabinet met on Friday and rubber-stamped a report that agreed to the setting up of a special purpose vehicle (SPV).
That will allow the club to borrow the necessary money, guaranteed by the council, to finance the new £300 million-plus ground at Liverpool's Bramley Moore Dock.
Everton can now begin the planning process, which could lead to the submission of a formal planning application by the end of the year.