A businessman is preparing to forge ahead with plans for a multi-million pound indoor soccer academy - after the Government decided not to order a public inquiry.

The plan has the support of Bradford City Football Club, which says it may use the indoor training centre for its budding stars.

Other clubs are also expected to use the academy near the Eurocam business park.

The £4 million plan, which would also include offices and business units for other companies, could create more than 400 jobs.

Bradford Council's regulatory committee had to refer the planning application to Stephen Byers, Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions, for a decision because of the change of use of the land.

The committee told Mr Byers it wanted the application to be approved, however. Today a Government spokesman said it was not intervening over the Council's decision.

Mr Larkin said: "I am delighted and hope to start work before the end of the year."

The football academy, which will also be used by the community, will include two indoor and outdoor pitches, changing rooms and medical facilities.

The Council has insisted the offices and industrial units on the ten acre site should be ready for occupation before anyone moves into the academy.

The proposals initially sparked protests from neighbours who were concerned about traffic and over-looking.

Shaun Harvey, managing director of Bradford City Football Club, said the centre could provide indoor facilities for part of its own planned football academy.