Plans for the redevelopment of the Swansea's Vetch Field stadium site have been boosted after £700,000 worth of funding was made available for demolition work.

The ground's former tenants - Swansea City Football Club (SCFC) - relocated to the Liberty Stadium in 2005, leaving the 98-year-old city centre venue no longer required. Demolition and landscaping work at the site now aims to progress plans for the development of affordable housing and green space, which have been identified as priorities by the local community.

The funding package will go before Swansea Council for approval, which has been provided by the Welsh Assembly Government and will see any future income from the site repaid. Swansea Council leader Chris Holley said: "This is hugely encouraging news because the Vetch Field site has been dormant for several years and demolition will help start the redevelopment process."

Jocelyn Davies, deputy minister for housing and regeneration, added: "The cost of demolishing of the site has so far prevented the land from being used for much-needed affordable housing and green space in the area so I'm delighted this funding will mark the first step in creating vital new amenities."