Northwich Victoria's future has been assured with plans for a new stadium set to go ahead.

The Vics vacated their former home at Drill Field and planned to sell the ground for housing, but planning permission was refused.

But now the redevelopment of Drill Field has been given the all clear, which will allow them the money needed to clear their debts and press ahead with building their new ground.

Chairman David Stone said: "The football club is obviously very happy with this result and aims to commence work on the Victoria Stadium in the near future."

The Nationwide Conference side plan to move to their new home by the 2004/5 season.

They are currently sharing with Witton Albion.