Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council granted conditional planning approval for the new development on 12 May, which will be built on the site of the former Michelin Athletic Club playing fields, although the project could still be called in at any point over a mandatory 21-day period.

Plans drawn up by AFL Architects include the construction of a new two-storey, 1,800sq m (19,375sq ft) building, which will offer changing rooms, medical facilities, a hydrotherapy pool and a gymnasium, as well as a kitchen and refectory area and office facilities featuring a media suite.

Two full-size football pitches, which will be used by SCFC's first team and academy, will also form part of the new development, while long-term plans are also in place for a floodlit pitch and an all-weather outdoor playing surface.

SCFC head of development, Richard Smith, said: "This represents a major milestone in our future development. Once completed, we will have training facilities to match our Premier League status and then have the capability to both attract and retain the best talent at the football club at all levels."