The future looks bright for Stotfold FC, with a long-awaited new ground on the horizon.

Central Bedfordshire Council has approved the release of a restrictive covenant on Roker Park football ground which will enable its relocation to Arlesey Road – seeing a new stadium built alongside community playing fields.

The covenant had limited use of the land for leisure purposes but the decision will allow Stotfold Town Council to see the land developed as a residential site, build a new facility and repay an outstanding loan to the unitary authority.

Central Beds Council first considered this matter in November 2013, agreeing to release the covenant, but at that time it was not financially viable for the town council.

The unitary authority’s decision is subject to the town council securing an agreement with a local developer whereby they will be granted a 99-year lease at a peppercorn rent for 24 acres of land at Arlesey Road.

Deputy leader of Central Beds Council Maurice Jones said: “This is a really positive outcome for the people of Stotfold and the surrounding area, while providing Stotfold FC with the facilities required of them by the Football Association.

“It will also deliver elements of our leisure strategy to promote sport and leisure activities and, in turn, contribute to public health and wellbeing in the area.”

A spokesman for the town council said: “The council is pleased that Central Beds council has approved the release of the covenant on Roker Park.

“This enables us to work with Rowan Homes to complete phase two of the town council’s project for Arlesey Road, which will see the relocation of our tenants at Roker Park and will provide more community facilities through securing 99 years use of green open space for the community of Stotfold.

“We look forward to the completion of this new asset for the community of Stotfold in the near future.”