The construction of a new stadium for York City Football Club and York City Knights Rugby League Club will start in October.

With a construction period of around 16 months, the York Community Stadium will be able to hold 8,000 fans and will include a number of leisure and community developments around the surrounding area.

A Cineworld cinema complex – with IMAX screen – five restaurants and three retail units will be part of the project.

The will also be a GLL-managed leisure facility, with swimming pool, gym, dance studio, indoor and outdoor climbing facilities, and a sports hall, as well as an NHS outpatient service and library.

Nigel Ayre, executive councillor with responsibility for the stadium at City of York Council, said the project was “making steady progress” despite “several issues” including Brexit, the last General Election and a failed legal challenge.

“I am extremely grateful to the city council, and other associated parties, for their hard work and patience in moving this matter forward,” added York City FC chair Jason McGill.

Jon Flatman, owner of the York City Knights, said: “A community stadium will continue the growth of rugby league and the professional club, community clubs, universities, colleges and schools.”

Flatman added that he wanted the stadium to host games from the 2021 Rugby League World Cup when it is staged in England.