World Cup bid hit by council row

The county council said the new stadium plan would overwhelm the area

A bid to bring World Cup football to Nottingham has been shaken by the county council's withdrawal.

Earlier this week a call for unity was made after a disagreement between the city and county authorities over a new stadium was made public.

The city council favours a 45,000-seat stadium on land off the A52 at Gamston.

But the county council has said it cannot be part of the bid until Nottingham Forest's existing City Ground is again considered.

Nottingham is bidding to become one of 12 host cities as England bids to stage the 2018 World Cup.

'Only option'

But the choice of the Gamston site, backed by the city council and Nottingham Forest, has infuriated the county council as it also includes 4,000 new homes on green belt land.

County council leader, Kay Cutts said: "I have taken the decision that, in view of the city council's and Forest's refusal to look at any other options but the green belt site at Gamston, that we cannot remain part of the bid. It has been a difficult decision and we have considered all options.

"I have written to all the partners involved in the bid to explain the reasons for my decision.

"I still hold hope that the city council and Forest will change their minds; the door will always be open for future discussions."

Leader of Nottingham City Council, Jon Collins, who earlier this week said it was vital for everyone to back Nottingham's bid, said: "It is particularly disappointing given the positive response to our bid from the FA and the large measure of support for most aspects of the bid.

"While the county council feels unable to support Nottingham Forest's proposal for a new stadium at Gamston, it remains the only credible option and partners will meet to discuss how best to proceed in light of this decision."