GUISELEY AFC has received what it describes as a massive boost after councillors gave the green light to a major upgrade at its ground.

Plans to bring Nethermoor up to Vanarama National League standards have caused controversy in the town.

But Leeds councillors have approved a recommendation to defer and delegate the application for approval to the chief planning officer, subject to a number of conditions.

The club will now be able to proceed with its plans for new spectator terracing, turnstile and toilets.

Club officials said: "Guiseley AFC is delighted to confirm the plans panel at Leeds City Council has unanimously backed our plans to upgrade Nethermoor.

"Following the meeting, we will now look to tie up these loose ends with a view to starting construction as soon as possible in order to meet the National League deadline."

Club secretary and chief executive officer, Adie Towers, added: "This is obviously a massive step forward for us in our plans to bring Nethermoor up to the necessary standards for this division.

"It is just reward for all the hard work put in behind the scenes and serves as a real boost ahead of our debut season at this level."

The Council received 61 letters of objection to the scheme, with some people arguing local infrastructure will not support the changes, which will expand ground capacity from 3,000 to 4,000.

Others claim the stadium forms part of a public park, which has been bequeathed to the people of the area, and which is protected by a covenant. The local authority has also received 95 letters in support of the application.

The club says its upgrade is needed to meet spectator safety and comfort regulations set out by the National League.