Decision whether to grant permission for Etihad Stadium's expansion is expected on February 13. Yesterday saw a report on the issue released, suggesting to approve the notion with no serious objections.

Manchester City kept their word and submitted planning application for Etihad Stadium expansion in December 2013. Overall the stadium should see almost 14,000 new seats, mostly on both ends – 6,250 on additional third tiers.

The planning application was preceded by a long consultation process, in which the club attempted to address issues raised by local residents. Yesterday the official report was published, seeing no important odstacles and suggesting approval of the planning application. Final decision is expected on February 13.

The plan didn't see overwhelming support, but also few concerns were made. They mostly regard literr and traffic issues around football games.

If the decision is approved as planned on February 13, construction work might follow within just a few weeks, possibly already in early March. First phase will include only the south end's new 6,250-seat third tier, which may be ready in mid-2015. No time frame for remaining phases is set at this point and will depend on ticket demand.