Liverpool FC have had plans for a £60m expansion of Anfield approved.
The Reds brought their application to Liverpool Council's planning committee this morning, where they were seeking approval for the major development of their famous stadium.
Their plans revolve around the £60m expansion of the Anfield Road end of the stadium, to grow its capacity by 7,000 to a total of 61,000.
READ MORE: LFC respond to concerns over Anfield expansion
The Reds have faced some opposition to the plans, particularly by those worried about the encroachment onto the nearby Stanley Park.
Some residents, local councillors and campaigners raised concerns about the removal of trees within the plan - but the club said significantly more trees would be planted than those being removed.
As well as the increased capacity, the plans include the development of a new family fan zone, hospitality lounges and a range of other facilities.
And the application also asked for permission to hold six annual major (non-footballing) events, such as music concerts, as part of this application.
Liverpool's Chief Operating Officer Andy Hughes spoke at the town hall this morning in support of the plans.
He said: "It's important to recognise the significant level of facilities for fans and accessibility facilities - as well as public realm behind the stand."
He says there will be 'much improved integration' for that public realm with Stanley Park."
Mr Hughes said there were concerns about the proposed closure of Anfield Road in the initial proposals from local residents.
He said that in response to feedback from local residents, the club changed the design of the stadium so that they could re-route Anfield Road behind the stadium.
But the club didn't have it all their own way today, facing stiff opposition on the issue of tree felling in particular.
Anfield Councillor Lena Simic claimed there had been a 'lack of transparency' from the club and said the issue of trees in Stanley Park being removed was only added in late on and didn't feature in initial consultation.
She said: "This park was created for public benefit, it has been loved by citizens for over 150 years."
"Why are we allowing our beloved historic public park to be changed to allow the expansion of a profit-driven private corporation?"
Planning committee members also raised concerns about the removal of trees, with Cllr Dave Cummings accusing the club of 'smoke and mirrors' over how and why trees were being removed.
Mr Hughes defended the club's approach to the park, adding: "The club has been investing significant sums into Stanley Park over many years. We've spent over £20m on the restoration of the park and this proposal involves us investing more.
"We have made really significant contributions to the park and continue to take it really seriously."
Despite the concerns raised, the committee voted by a margin of 6 to 2 in favour of granting permission for the Reds' expansion plans.
The £60m project that will eventually see Anfield grow to a capacity of 61,000 can now get underway.
