Multi-million plans for hundreds of homes, a police station, school, new road junction and football stadium last night got the go-ahead from Colchester Council.
Colchester United chief executive Marie Partner said today: "I am absolutely delighted as well as relieved. It has been a long, long time.
"I was really appreciative of having both the support of Colchester Council and the local councillors themselves."
She added: "We have jumped one major hurdle but we still have a way to go."
The plans will be sent to the Secretary of State for approval.
Vincent Pearce, Colchester Council's planning services manager, last night explained the 10,000 seater stadium would be capable of being extended to 17,000 if the team's success starts to bring in larger crowds, but the extension would need separate planning permission.
Published Friday, August 1, 2003
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