The plans for the Falmer option were opposed by some residents

All parties involved in the last public inquiry into Brighton and Hove Albion's plan were asked to submit comments on each other's views, council said.

Council chief executive Alan McCarthy said: "We hope this can be our final word on this long-running saga."

Local Government Secretary Ruth Kelly is reviewing plans after consent given by John Prescott in 2005 was quashed.

'Overwhelming case'

Brighton council wants to see regeneration benefits that would include a �13m economic boost annually, 300 construction jobs, and 300 permanent jobs.

Mr McCarthy said: "It's not a simple black and white issue but our interpretation of the planning guidelines is that there is an overwhelming case for Falmer."

Feasibility studies were originally conducted for nine sites, including Sheepcote Valley and the club's preferred option at Falmer, which was also backed by Brighton and Hove council and the city's MPs.

However, the plans for the Falmer option were opposed by some residents, the parish council, Lewes council and conservation groups because of its proximity to the South Downs, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Brighton and Hove Albion have been without a stadium since their former home - the Goldstone Ground - closed in 1997 and was then sold off.