The ground could expand to hold 18,000 people

The development - which will cost �16m - would be funded by 114 student apartments in the ground.

The club's chairman, Geoff Dunford, says that to allay residents' concerns over parking they will only allow students who will not base cars there.

Locals lodged 600 complaints in June when the club were granted permission for redevelopment of the North Stand.

Bristol City Council then imposed conditions on the development saying that the bars must close by 11pm.

During the latest planning process residents will be given the chance to have their say about what community facilities should be included in the ground - if it is granted planning permission.

Bristol Rovers' chairman, Geoff Dunford, told the BBC that gaining permission for the North Stand development was the catalyst for the new plans.

Filling out

"Since we've had the planning it set our thoughts rolling - the Memorial Stadium is designated as sports stadium - and the permission for the North Stand confirmed the designation.

"It confirmed that once you've got permission for one stand you can fill the rest of the stadium out."

Mr Dunford said that people living in the area had already been told of the plans.

"We have already contacted the residential committees and the local politicians that we deal with in the area.

"We will be holding various meetings over the next six months to get all the residents' views."

He added that doctor's surgeries and dental practices could be included in the stadium.

The Memorial Stadium, in the Horfield area of the city, is also home to the city's rugby club.