Controversial proposals to build a speedway stadium for Cradley Heathens on green belt land have been thrown into doubt after council officers asked for more detail on the plans.

The plans, submitted to Dudley Council a fortnight ago, have been returned to developers because of concerns about the impact the stadium would have on the surrounding area. There are also worries about the design of the stadium and transport links.

The shock delay was announced at a meeting of Halesowen Area Committee when it was revealed the council has not registered the application for land in Cradley.

Officials have asked developers for more information about issues including noise, the loss of open space, and traffic congestion.

The announcement has given organisers behind a campaign opposing the development some breathing space as they battle to block the scheme.

When the application is re-submitted, the council will have 16 weeks to make a decision over whether to approve it. About 400 people attended a meeting last week to voice their concerns.

The application to build the stadium on land behind the Powerleague football complex is backed by a near 10,000-name petition by team supporters.