A ‘minded to approve' decision was taken – meaning that approval would be subject to the revision of specific elements of the scheme.
The decision means the proposed stadium development can move forward, once some specific matters have been resolved in the near future. Once completed, the stadium will be the region's largest sporting capital investment initiative.
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The stadium application features a 30,000-seater stadium, incorporating conferencing and hospitality facilities, new retail and community opportunities, outline consent for a hotel and associated food and drink outlets, houses and flats, a wildlife area and flood risk measures and the creation of new jobs.
Councillor Lesley Alexander, Chair of the Development Control Committee (South and East), said: "The committee carefully considered the application.
"We looked at the application and asked searching questions. The committee decided many aspects of the application could go forward but the pedestrian access arrangements warranted more detailed information and further discussion. We also felt that the proposed housing development of the 'Southlands' site was unacceptable.
"After careful consideration, the committee are minded to approve outline planning permission – subject to a number of conditions and more detailed plans and further submissions," he said.
(CD/BMcC)
