Boston's Quadrant stadium plans get minister's backing
A project to build a new stadium and homes in Lincolnshire is a step closer after a government minister decided the application would not be reviewed.
Plans for a stadium for Boston United FC and 500 houses were approved in August by the borough council.
But Wyberton Parish Council opposed the decision, saying the Quadrant development would harm businesses.
Eric Pickles, the Secretary of State, says he will not call in a review of the planning application.
Chestnut Homes and Boston United put forward the £100m proposals to build a 4,000-seat ground for the Conference North club, shops and a hotel.
'Give town lift'
More than half of the 550 people who voted in a referendum held by the parish council were opposed to the development near the A16 in Wyberton.
David Newton, chairman of Boston United and managing director at Chestnut Homes, said the project had already been 12 years in the making.
"It is a big day and a good step forward," he said.
"I think it is going to create a new gateway into the town and it is going to give the whole town a lift.
"We are looking at 450 permanent jobs and 600 construction jobs, so it is a significant project for the town."
The application has been referred back to Boston Borough Council for more detailed plans to be submitted.
Subject to further approval and funding being allocated, construction on the site could start by spring next year.