So it could be another fortnight before the full extent of the work and a definite start date is agreed.

The council has promised to spend up to £2.7 million on the stand, creating space for spectators, changing facilities, bars, hospitality rooms and toilets.

But the Shay Stadium Trust needs to raise an extra £1 million so that the accommodation can be fitted out in a way which helps to make the stadium economically viable and provides money raising opportunities for the town's football and rugby league clubs.

Duncan Farr, the council's stadium development manager, said three firms bid for the work on the stand and one was chosen on the basis not only of price but also its previous track record of sports stadia development.

"The project is unusual and not without difficulty as the contractor will haven to take on , adapt and compete the partially finished structure that has remained incomplete since October 2001.

"As award of the contract is still pending, it is not possible to disclose tender sums at this time."

Mr Farr said the council was working with the stadium trust to help it find a way to raise the money for the additional facilities.

The aim has been to begin work on the stand on June 25 so that it is completed by December 19 and ready for use on January 12.