Saracens have been given the go-ahead to move to Copthall after receiving the approval of the Secretary of State.

The Premiership champions have cleared the final hurdle before planning permission could be issued after the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government signed off the proposal.

Sarries had already received the backing of the Planning and Environment Committee of Barnet Council and the Mayor of London.

Sarries chairman Nigel Wray said: "We are obviously delighted that the Secretary of State has confirmed that our planning application can be determined at local level, in line with the spirit of localism. We now hope that the formal decision will be issued by Barnet Council over the coming days.

“The comprehensive sporting and community benefits of our proposals have been recognised at every stage of the decision making process. We will create a vibrant sports hub for the local community, offering great facilities free of charge for local schools. We will also provide a hugely improved athletics venue for Shaftesbury Barnet Harriers and make a real home for Saracens.

“We have engaged with local residents throughout the life of this project and we will continue to do so as we move forward. We want to provide a facility that the whole community can be proud of...and that's a promise."