A PLANNING inspector has given four economic experts three weeks to assess how the recession will hit Everton FC and Tesco’s plans for Kirkby.

Closing the first half of the public planning inquiry into Destination Kirkby, inspector Wendy Burden asked for a set of simplified tables showing how the downturn might affect “expenditure growth” in the proposed development.

The information will be provided by Tesco and Everton, Knowsley Council and their opponents Liverpool City Council and the combined authorities.

The current economic downturn also played a significant part in yesterday’s cross examination of Mike Hollis, Knowsley Council’s witness on retail and regeneration.

Roger Lancaster, for the combined authorities opposing the bid, believes that a massive investment in Kirkby will hit neighbouring Skelmersdale’s own regeneration plans.

Mr Hollis agreed that the Secretary of State would need to consider whether the proposal would have an impact on investment in Skelmersdale.

But St Modwen, the developers for Skelmersdale, had indicated they were reviewing their investment proposals in view of the downturn in the housing market.