The Tigers' long-term future hinged on receiving planning permission for a 15,000 capacity stadium on the site of an old colliery.

It is expected to cost around £15m and will be part of a £40m development.

Chief executive Richard Wright said: "This is a massive step forward in making the Tigers dream of a 21st-century stadium become reality."

He added: "We can now progress with confidence because whilst awaiting this news we have been moving ahead in tandem on the finances and again are confident of everything being in place.

"As a result, we expect work to start soon with the aim of moving into the new stadium by 2010 at the latest, although we haven't as yet ruled out 2009."

Clubs applying for a three-year licence for a proposed 14-team Super League from 2009 must meet strict criteria, including stadium and facilities, and the Tigers believe the news about the stadium will virtually guarantee their inclusion.

Wright said: "This could prove one of the most significant days in the club's history.