Lancashire's £32m revamp of Old Trafford has been given the green light by the Government.
Government gives go ahead for £32m revamp
Old Trafford should regain Test status in time for the 2013 Ashes after Lancashire were given the green light by the Government for a £32million redevelopment.
The joint development with Tesco supermarket has been hailed as a "historic decision" by Lancashire chief executive Jim Cumbes.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) had confirmed that without substantial redevelopment there would have been no more Test cricket at Old Trafford.
The redevelopment will see the wicket turned 90 degrees meaning the famous Stretford End, where Jim Laker famously took 19 wickets against Australia in 1956, will disappear.
Wicket change
"This is a historic moment for Old Trafford, as it will ultimately secure the future of international cricket in Greater Manchester and the north-west," said Cumbes.
"We can now immediately commit to the turning of the wicket, a vital stage in our programme for the re-developed stadium to be ready in time to host the Ashes in 2013."
Two new grandstands and a re-furbished pavilion will see the revamped Old Trafford have a capacity of 15,000 rising to 25,000 with temporary seats.
There will also be floodlights and a screen showing action replays.
The development will see Lancashire's Championship matches played at Liverpool, Southport and Blackpool next season but Old Trafford is still expected to host one-day matches.
