Bristol City Football Club tonight took a major step towards their new stadium at Ashton Vale.

Bristol City Council's Planning Committee agreed to deliver a "minded to approve" decision in line with their officers report, with a seven-versus-two majority verdict.

However, the one sticking point remains around the Southlands housing development proposal, which it has been revealed tonight contributes in the region of £5.5m towards the overall project.

PLAYER: Colin Sexstone video exclusive

The stadium, hotel and part of the housing - on Alderman Moores allotments - have all been "minded to approve".

The club has to make some headway on pedestrian access to the stadium, and will return to committee in six months' time.

The meeting at the Council House on College Green lasted some four-and-a-half hours, with City chief executive Colin Sexstone and manager Gary Johnson in attendance throughout.

Colin delivered a passionate speech to the committee, declaring: This will be an iconic stadium unique to Bristol. The economic benefits have been assessed at £260m over the next 20 years.

"This is an opportunity for the whole of Bristol and we need regeneration."

City fans Miles Hendy and Marie Day - both from the Supporters Trust - also spoke in favour, along with a host of professionals ranging from architects to ecology specialists.

Mandy Thorpe, from the club's Study Centre, also spoke up about the community benefits of the new stadium.

Earlier a number of City's players were outside on College Green to meet with supporters who had turned up to back the bid. And there were plenty of City shirts inside the Council Chamber when it all began at 6pm.

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