Barnet FC chairman Tony Kleanthous has expressed his delight at news floodlights and a new stand at The Hive stadium will be allowed to stay.

Harrow Council had ordered The Bees dismantle the lighting and its new West Stand at the Camrose Avenue ground after refusing to grant retrospective planning permission for the developments.

The club appealed the decision and an inquiry was due to be heard by the Planning Inspectorate this summer.

But after seeking advice from two independent consultants, the local authority backed down and announced earlier this month it will not be providing any evidence to the inquiry, which looks unlikely to go ahead.

Following what has been a turbulent year for the club since its move from Underhill stadium in Barnet, Bees chairman Tony Kleanthous said today he was pleased with the council’s decision.

He said in a statement: “The apocalypse that everyone was predicting following the relocation of the club hasn’t happened and the support of The Hive from the local community has been absolutely tremendous.

“We are proud to work with our neighbours and we will continue to do so in order to improve the operation of this world class facility.

“Let’s hope we can now move forward together to maximise the positive benefits we bring to the local area.”