AN application to build a new football stadium in Worcester will again go before city planners next week.

Last month the Worcester News reported on the dramatic decision by Worcester City's planning committee to refuse the proposed 4,400-capacity stadium in Perdiswell Park.

In a heated debate at the Guildhall, more than 100 in the public gallery applauded comments in favour and against the application.

And when a vote was held the committee was split. Crucially, chairman Chris Mitchell's casting vote was against the scheme and among the reasons given were that it was due to the significant erosion of a green public space.

The application is now back on the agenda for the committee's next meeting, being held on Thursday, July 20.

Significantly, officers are recommending committee members change their mind and approve the application.

In his report planning officer Alan Coleman writes: "It remains the prerogative of the planning committee to make a contrary decision.

"It is important to note that there may be consequences to the actions that members take should they be required to defend a reason for refusal at appeal.

"There must be a sufficiently robust reason for refusal for an expert witness to be prepared to defend the case.

"Members run a risk for the awarding of partial or even full costs of the applicants’ appeal work - that causes officers significant concern."

A reason for refusal on the grounds that the adverse impacts would outweigh the benefits when assessed against the policies in the Development Plan and NPPF, is suggested to members.

But the officer adds: "Albeit it remains my opinion that this reason is not sufficiently robust."

The plans for the scheme were first drawn up as far back as April 2014, with the application featuring plans for tiered stands, a supporters bar, a conference room, directors lounge and club shop.

The committee meeting is scheduled to take place from 1.30pm, at The Guildhall.