THE Victoria Stadium could be used to host music concerts if a planning application is successful.

Bosses at Northwich Victoria say the shows, which they hope will attract thousands of people, would be restricted to one or two a year.

But neighbours of the Wincham club believe that is too many.

Chapel Street resident Clare Dockney said: "Don't they think we've got enough problems with traffic along here as it is?

"The road will end up being used as a rat run."

Meanwhile Vics are keen to push on with the proposal.

Commercial manager Roni Melville said: "It's just an idea we're working on at the moment but I think it's one we should take seriously."

She confirmed the club had submitted a planning application to Vale Royal Borough Council to vary two conditions attached to the original consent to build the stadium in 2003.

Firstly, Vics hope to extend a curfew to play amplified music to between 9am and 11pm on Saturday and Sunday.

At the moment all sound must be switched off by 9pm.

Secondly, they want a safety certificate for the stadium to permit a crowd of up to 10,000.

The current capacity is around 5,000, but no physical alteration to the ground would be needed to accommodate more people for a concert as fans could stand on the pitch.

Ms Melville added: "Of course the football will always take precedent but the facilities we can offer here give us other opportunities."

Builders are in for a busy few months as it is, with work due to start soon on two all weather sports pitches next to the stadium.

Development beneath the main stand is progressing well after borough planning chiefs passed a proposal for a 200-capacity function room, piano bar and restaurant in May.

"Things are really starting to take shape now - the Victoria Stadium is an asset the town can be proud of," said Ms Melville.

Public consultation on the application runs until Wednesday, July 19.