The development would see the ground become one of the biggest

The proposals at Sixways include a new North Stand to take capacity to 13,200, a health centre, racquet club for public use and replacement pitches.

The plans, approved by Wychavon District Council, mean the club would have one of the biggest grounds in the Guinness Premiership.

The ground would also be incorporated in a park-and-ride scheme.

The plans need final approval from the department of communities and local government.

Charlie Little, general manager of the club, said: "We're delighted the plans received a unanimous vote and we're pleased it has been acknowledged as not just a rugby development but that it improves the surrounding area as well.

"We have arguably the best facilities in the Premiership and it will get even better."

Club owner Cecil Duckworth added: "The comments by a number of councillors were that it was the most exciting project they've received in probably the past 10 years.

"They were extremely supportive, which is an endorsement of the hard work that everyone has put in, including our architect Ian McConaghy and our consultants Robert West.