KYLIE, Robbie, Madonna or perhaps The Darkness and Franz Ferdinand - maybe even all of them.

These are just some of the big names that could be packing in the crowds now that St Mary's football stadium has permission to stage a series of music concerts.

Bosses at St Mary's are remaining tight-lipped over the names and dates of artists they are lining up but have revealed they are planning a major rock concert for next summer.

It comes after councillors at Southampton City Council's planning and rights of way panel said the 32,500-seater stadium could host four concerts over a two-year period.

It was the second time permission had been sought. The first time, it was denied after complaints from residents about noise and traffic, but steps have since been taken to monitor noise from the gigs, which can be held only at weekends and bank holidays.

The club's managing director Andrew Cowen said he was delighted they had the green light.

"This is a great decision for both the city and the whole area," he said.

"We hope to bring major stars to the stadium, which will raise the profile of the city significantly."

The application has been months in planning, with stadium bosses working closely with council officers and residents.

They now want to hold two concerts next year, between May and August.

Dawn Humphries, secretary of Northam Tenants and Residents' Association, said people living around the stadium had previously raised worries about noise, traffic and litter.

She said: "The residents did help get the first application turned down because of their strong views, but there have been a lot of talks with the football club and we think the new plans should be okay."