Bristol Rovers' Stadium Approved
12 councillors to one voted in favour of the plans for the 21,700 seat stadium.
The UWE Stadium is a joint project between Bristol Rovers and the university and now they've been given the green light, work could start in the New Year with a provisional opening date of Spring 2014.
Today's decision has been described as a 'huge step forward' for the club by Chairman Nick Higgs: "The result of the planning committee of 12 votes for and one against is more than anyone could ever wish for. It shows what a good scheme that my team have put together and how we've address all the fears and concerns of local people, residents and the council."
The club have got one more hurdle to overcome regarding their current home, The Memorial Stadium. Supermarket giant, Sainsbury's plan to turn into a new store and the decision on the application is due later this year.
The sale of the site to the company will help to fund the new ground.
Jim Chappell, Chairman of the Bristol Rovers Supporters club has nothing but confidence in Nick Higgs and the board: "They worked incredibly hard all hours, night and day, I know that. All the hard work that's been put in had come to fruition. Hopefully the same will be the case with Sainsbury's and the scheme can go ahead in the autumn."
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