Enfield Council has given Tottenham Hotspur permission to expand their 77-acre training ground which is situated on previously protected green belt land.

The authority's decision comes after initial plans were halted in 2015 because ecologists discovered newts and grass snakes living on the site and bats in a barn which was being prepared for demolition.

When completed the expansion will include an education facility, a nature reserve to aide learning, a world class multi-purpose floodlit sports pitch, coach-parking space and a 500 capacity spectator stand near Whitewebbs Lane.

A Tottenham Hotspur spokesman, said: “The club is delighted following the unanimous vote of approval by Enfield Council to develop the site.

“The nature reserve would be managed by Capel Manor College, would offer a dedicated education programme that would be designed and delivered in consultation with teachers from Enfield and linked to the national curriculum.”

Spurs chairman Daniel Levy, said: “The location of the club’s training centre has provided us with an unrivalled and unique opportunity to deliver something truly outstanding for the young people of Enfield.

“Through our section 106 commitments in Enfield we have already been able to engage and enhance the lives of thousands of young people from across the borough.

“This facility represents a sustainable long-term investment into the next generation and will ensure school children from across the area will be able to study and enjoy nature and the countryside in the area in which they live.”

Tottenham Hotspur’s training facility includes a covered artificial pitch, player preparation areas, a pool and hydrotherapy suite and a specialized sports rehabilitation area.