The proposed expansion of Liverpool FC's stadium has moved a step closer after Liverpool City Council's Planning Committee granted planning permission, subject to conditions and legal agreement.

The proposed expansion is just one element of a major regeneration plan, which was announced by Liverpool City Council in October 2012, to transform the Anfield area.

Expansion of the club's Main Stand has been granted with outline proposals to expand the Anfield Road Stand as well. The redevelopment of the Main Stand could add an additional 8,500 seats, taking its capacity to nearly 21,000 and overall Anfield capacity to around 54,000. The outline proposals for the Anfield Road Stand would result in an increase of around 4,800 seats.

Ian Ayre, LFC's chief executive officer, said: "The approval by the Planning Committee is another step on our journey which we embarked on nearly two years ago.

"We received very positive support for our proposals during a public consultation exercise earlier this year and whilst we are delighted about the progress made today, there are still some steps that we need to navigate through in order to give us the certainty that we need to proceed with our expansion plans."

Construction work on the proposed Main Stand is expected to begin early next year and be complete in time for the 2016-17 season. Matches will continue to be played at Anfield during the construction work.

Joe Anderson, mayor of Liverpool, said: "This is a very important milestone in our ambitions to transform the Anfield area, bringing new jobs, investment and housing.

"The overall regeneration will see £260m invested in Anfield. Liverpool Football Club's proposals for the stadium are a key part of this. The club is a major employer in the area and its stadium is a major draw for tourists and visitors."