KIDDERMINSTER Harriers have netted a big boost with plans for a new £1 million stand getting the green light.

The Football League set a deadline of May next year for a minimum of 2,000 seats to be in place when the club was promoted from non-league football two years ago.

And Wyre Forest District Council's planning (development control) committee has given the thumbs-up to the proposed new 2,025 seat stand to replace the Bill Greaves Stand, otherwise known as the Cowshed.

Harriers chairman Colin Youngjohns said yesterday the club was still waiting on the outcome of an application for money from the Football Foundation to finance the project, which would be crucial in deciding when work will begin.

But he was pleased the "critical" hurdle of planning permission had been overcome.

The stand has been scaled down from original plans due to the ITV Digital cash row which has placed the future of many clubs outside the Premiership in jeopardy.

However, Mr Youngjohns is optimistic for the future of the club, which has had to axe five non-playing staff, as it is more used to operating with a smaller budget than many larger clubs.

The stand will see seating capacity at Harriers' Aggborough ground increased to 3,177 as the existing main stand houses 1,152.

But the overall capacity of the Hoo Road stadium will remain 6,229 as corner standing area will be lost.

The new 13-tier stand will have spaces for spectators with wheelchairs, toilet and catering facilities

Planning officer Paul Wrigglesworth said the plans complied with Football League regulations and would raise the profile of the club, provide more money through sale of refreshments, sponsorship and advertising.