THE future of Warrington Wolves' stadium plans could be decided before the end of the week, according to Westminster insiders.

As the GUARDIAN went to press, rumours were rife that a decision on whether to 'call in' the plans for a public inquiry was imminent.

But Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott's office at the House of Commons was unable to confirm or deny whether there was any truth in the rumours.

A spokesman for the Department of Environment, Transport and the Regions said: "We can never speculate as to when Mr Prescott will come to a conclusion."

The Wolves have secured a £9m deal with Tesco and landowners Carlsberg-Tetley for the prestigious development.

Government backing for the planned stadium, which would provide a massive community facility as well as a new home for the Wolves, would rejuvenate the 121-year-old club but a delay on the decision is putting massive pressure on the Wolves' financial operation, two years after the Super League outfit was saved from going bust.

Norman Summers, chairman of the Wolves' owners, Warrington Sports Holdings Ltd, said: "We're getting nervous about not having had any news on the decision.

"We're relying on a positive result because having a new stadium will give us the impetus to raise money. It really is a very important decision."

It is almost five months since Warrington Borough Council's development control committee gave its blessing to the multi-million-pound joint stadium and Tesco Extra store plan, subject to a decision from the Government.

But Mr Summers is in no doubt that the result of a public inquiry would be favourable for the stadium anyway.

He said: "With the wholehearted support of the Warrington community and with the majority of the borough council and obviously the fans behind it, it is difficult to see what could come from a public inquiry other than a positive outcome."

Helen Southworth, MP for Warrington South, has given the stadium plans her full backing from the start and says she would like to see the decision made as soon as possible.

"I want these things to go ahead quickly," she said.

"I haven't heard anything about when the decision will be announced, but whatever the result I am backing the Wolves. For the club, it is so important.

"And I am pleased that the club is getting a good partner in Tesco, because that's what it needs. I am quite happy to back the plans."

Lord Hoyle chairman of the Wolves and Helen Jones' predecessor as Warrington North MP says he is also in the dark about when the decision will be made, but he is hopeful that it will be announced quickly.

"I would have thought we would have heard before Christmas," he said.

"I know Parliament has only just reassembled, but I don't think they can delay much longer."