The club submitted its plans for Falmer four years ago

The authority claims John Prescott's decision to allow the stadium in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is against government planning policy.

The petition was collected in one week by residents who claim the council is wasting tax payers' money.

But the council said it was pressing ahead with its High Court challenge.

'Bottomless financial pit'

The authority admitted that if it loses its case it faces a bill of �65,000.

But during a council meeting over the issue of Wednesday councillor Neil Cummins said he would "consider resigning if we blow our �65,000 limit".

He said the council understood why there was opposition to the plans but he could not run an arbitrary system.

"If we accept development in an area of outstanding natural beauty for some things and not for other that would be completely unfair."

But the Falmer For All Campaign said the council was refusing to listen to local residents who are concerned the authority is "digging a bottomless financial pit".

Brighton and Hove Albion was granted permission for the 23,000-seater stadium after a seven year battle.

Paul Samrah, from the supporter's club, said he was just pleased the council had requested an early High Court hearing "because it has already gone on long enough".