The Liberal Democrats want plans for the Albion's proposed new home at Falmer moved forward quickly.

Paul Elgood, leader of Brighton and Hove City Council's Lib Dems, has written to planning officers in support of the project. He said: "We have to judge the applications on the basis that this is what is before us. Any other consideration is superfluous.

"The debate on the sites has been had many times and now the council must honour the democratic outcome and enable the club to move forward with its plans. The council needs to deal with the issue once and for all."

He said the stadium was an exciting design and fitted into the area and transport links could easily be improved.

Council leader Ken Bodfish said everything was coming together and urged no unnecessary planning delays. He said the council had to get something done quickly.

The club has submitted two stadium planning applications, at Village Way North and at Village Way South.