Plans for a major housing development in Gloucestershire could become reality after the Deputy Prime Minister gave the scheme his provisional backing.

John Prescott is "minded to grant planning permission" for more than 2,000 houses, commercial and business premises near Gloucester.

A two week consultation period is now in place for the 360-acre development on the former RAF base at Quedgeley.

The consortium of housebuilders, Quedgeley Urban Village, has also pledged to provide the missing �6m for the Gloucester South West bypass.

Its completion would mean mean a major regeneration scheme for the city can go ahead.

We are studying the conditions imposed on the development Council spokesperson

Gloucester City Council opposed the original development plan on grounds relating to the amount of affordable housing and commercial development on offer.

A spokesperson said Mr Prescott's decision was a significant change in view.

"He was set to refuse permission unless persuaded. We are studying the conditions imposed on the development," he added.

Negotiations are still continuing.