Green light for Lille stadium

Environmental concerns
The club had faced major opposition from local residents and environmental groups to their plans to extend the ground's capacity from 18,000 to 33,000, but a court appeal against the decision to grant planning permission has been rejected allowing work to continue on the stadium.

Heritage area
Objections had been raised on the grounds that the new-look stadium would pose a threat to the environment and historic heritage of the surrounding area. The ground is situated in an urban park near fortifications that were built in the 17th century.

Work suspended
Work on the venue was suspended last summer, and Lille have been playing all their matches this season at the Lille Métropole (or Villeneuve d'Ascq stadium) in one of the suburbs of the biggest city in the north of France. They have yet to lose at their temporary home.

'A new chapter'
Nonetheless, Lille are looking forward to returning to their traditional home, with a club statement reading: "Now a new chapter in Lille's history can begin." Work on the Grimonprez-Jooris is expected to continue for another year.

European prospects
Lille are guaranteed UEFA Cup football in the new year after finishing top of Group H following a 1-0 win against Sevilla FC last night.