FC United can build their new stadium in Moston after a crunch meeting. Jubilant fans cheered in celebration after planning bosses gave the green light.
The decision was taken at a boisterous town hall meeting where angry residents laid out the opposition to the plan.
They claimed building a stadium at the Ronald Johnson playing fields would cause traffic chaos and destroy a local beauty spot.
But council chiefs ruled in the club's favour, granting them permission to proceed with the £3.5m project.
However, the club, known as the Rebels, will have to wait until the Charity Commission decides the land can be built on before they can start work.
Part of the playing fields in between St Mary's Road and Lightbowne Road are covered by a covenant which states the land has to be used for recreation of the people of Moston.
FC United, who play in the seventh tier of English football, hope to be using the facility by the start of the 2012-13 football season.
Andy Walsh, general manager of FC United, said: "We are very pleased with the way this committee went today. We still have a lot of hard work to do. We've got to raise the cash and we want to continue the consultation with residents to ensure that the development is something fitting for the area.
"We want to be long-term partners and good neighbours."
Residents had mounted a substantial campaign against the proposal, claiming the site is unsuitable for a football stadium.
Paul Gibson, a solicitor acting on behalf of 17 of the residents, said: "My clients are astonished by this decision. We can't understand how it was taken and, further to instruction, I will be pursuing further legal action."
Annette McGovern, from Residents United Association, said: "Naturally, we are very disappointed and upset by the decision, but we need to look forward.
"This is by no means over and there are a lot of avenues we can try."
The breakaway club chose the Moston site after its preferred location in Newton Heath fell through due to council funding cuts.
The plans include two youth pitches for Moston Juniors, who currently lease the playing fields from Manchester council.
Meanwhile, the clubhouse will also be used by community groups and for education sessions.
Cllr Mike Amesbury, Manchester City Council's executive member for culture and leisure, said: "This will mean Moston Juniors FC and other sports groups in the area will have access to a top-class facility, which will enable them to thrive."
Pamela Welsh
October 27, 2011
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