Although the stadium could still be derailed if enough objections are received to force Communities Secretary Hazel Blears to order a judicial review this now seems extremely unlikely, judging from the lack of any serious opposition to the planning application itself.

The stadium which will cost anything between £260 million and £400 million, depending on the final design spec, is to be built by Laing O Rourke.

The city’s planning committee called on the council to impose a minimum £100 fine on fans who park illegally on match days, in response to fears of increased traffic chaos.