Super League champions Bradford Bulls have been given the go-ahead to transform their Odsal stadium into a 26,000-capacity all-seater arena.

The club's plans were approved by Bradford City Council on Thursday.

Bulls chairman Chris Caisley said: "We are delighted the city council has given its approval for the scheme.

"Our fans can look forward in 2002 with much excitement and anticipation that at last we are going to have the facilities we deserve.

"It is a also a very significant step forward towards the regeneration of the Odsal area and providing Bradford with an impressive gateway to the city."

The Bulls have been playing fixtures at Valley Parade since the beginning of the year as they have looked to redevelop Odsal.