SOUTHEND United's plans for a new football stadium at Fossetts Farm may not get the final seal of approval until July, amid concerns raised by traders.

A Government planning inspector yesterday announced a decision on the 22,000-seater football stadium, which includes flats and retail units, would not be announced before July 7.

The inspector had been due to announce a decision on May 27, but said the extra time was needed to consider a number of concerns which had been raised by those affected by the plans.

Bill Harkness, managing director of Delamere Estates, is behind a £25million redevelopment of the Victoria shopping centre.

He said: "It is absolutely crucial for the future of Southend the agreement on shopping is maintained, and that any major retailers opening there stay in the town centre for five years, which has been agreed.

"Any changes from this could spell disaster for the town centre."

Chartered surveyor Gerald Eve has called on the Secretary of State to ensure a clause is inserted into the final agreement, preventing shops opening before the football stadium is up and running.

Meanwhile, Southend Council has asked no more than half of the 67 flats planned for the Fossetts Farm site be sold until the affordable housing units are handed over to a registered social landlord.

It is hoped once final approval is given, building work can start on the £50million stadium by the summer. The club hope it will be open in time for the 2010 season.

The proposals include a 114-bedroom hotel, conference area, a players' hostel, food and drink concessions and bars. All facilities would be contained within the stadium and a restaurant and health club.