Which of course is great news for Euro 2016 and Girondins, but to spoil the joy an appeal has already been filed. It will consume some time, but is unlikely to put the project on hold – “Sud Ouest” predicts.

Stade Bordeaux Atlantique is expected to be among Euro 2016 jewels, but first shovel is yet to be stuck in the ground. A major milestone has been reached, however, as building permit for the structure was issued.

It will now be subject to appeal as Alain Juppe of the socialist opposition questions the permit before Administrative Court. The project seems solid and should not be halted, though processing the appeal will take time.

Depending on court’s decision, works should start in Autumn 2012. Even with the procedures Vinci, the main contractor, still have a lot time on their hands with UEFA-set deadline in 2015 and flexible if need be.

The future stadium was designed by renown architects Herzog and de Meuron from Switzerland, creators of Allianz Arena or Beijing National Stadium. Estimated cost of €185m will be divided between Girondins de Bordeaux football club (€100m) and public partners: mayor, Urban Community of Bordeaux and regional authorities – each with €15m contribution. Governmental subsidy will provide the remaining part.