Challenge on FC United's Moston Community Stadium rejected

The £4.6m stadium has been partly funded by community shares in the club

Residents have lost their appeal against the plans for a new football stadium for FC United of Manchester.

The Court of Appeal ruled the original planning permission for the Moston development, granted by Manchester City Council, should stand.

In a statement, the club said it was "pleased" by the verdict, which would see work start on the 5,000 capacity stadium and community sports facility.

Residents United Residents Association (RURA) has opposed the plans.

A bid to appeal against December's High Court judicial review, which allowed planning permission to stand, was rejected at the hearing.

Manchester City Council received 5,635 letters in support of the original 2011 application and 2,226 letters objecting to it.

The club offered supporters the opportunity to buy shares to help raise the £4.6m required for the Ronald Johnson playing fields project.

'A real asset'

An FC United spokesman said: "After what has been a costly and lengthy delay we are pleased with the decision of the court and look forward to being able to begin the build and bring the anticipated social and economic benefit to the area as soon as possible.

"FC United of Manchester remains committed and open to work with all local residents and community groups, including those who remain sceptical about the development, and ensure this is a real asset to the local area and Manchester as a whole."

The club, which is owned and run by its members, formed in 2005 by Manchester United fans as a protest against American businessman Malcolm Glazer's takeover.

FC United, who play in the Northern Premier League Premier Division, currently play their home games at Bury's Gigg Lane.