"The application was sensible and quite clearly the planned development would have nicely complemented the area.

"There’s no doubting at all that this was a political decision.

"The Bellefield site is an asset which the club as a business will have to realise, it would be ridiculous for the club to just leave it."

In June last year Liverpool City Council rejected plans by the club to build 74 large family homes on the club’s former base.

Council planners had originally recommended the scheme be approved, but the planning committee rejected the plans over fears of increased traffic, extra pressure on local schools, doctors and dentists, and loss of open space.

About 220 residents objected to the plans, in which Bellefield’s buildings would be demolished.

Everton appealed against the decision, and a public inquiry followed in November last year.

Yesterday planning inspector Karen Ridge dismissed Everton’s appeal.

In her decision report she wrote: "I conclude that there is nothing to suggest that the proposal would have a detrimental effect on the living conditions of surrounding residents by virtue of the increased traffic movements."

But she also looked into the principle of residential development having regard to loss of green space, housing and land supply matters, and its effect on the Housing Market Renewal Initiative.

"I conclude that the principle of residential development on the appeal site is unacceptable," she found.

Cllr Bradley said: "The city council planning committee made the decision to refuse the application.

"I know the officers of the council were confident that they reached the right decision and that has been vindicated by the inspector.

"I would call on Everton Football Club to come to the table in a collaborative way and let’s talk through all the issues and let’s resolve the issues around Bellefield and how they want to develop it taking the views of the residents on board."

Ian Ross, EFC director of communications, said: "We are bitterly disappointed, we will now closely study the decision before deciding our next move."

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