Durham are the second county in two days to have been given the go-ahead to install permanent floodlights.
After Gloucestershire’s announcement yesterday, Durham have now been granted planning permission after councillors approved the proposal of six floodlights, measuring 55 metres in height, at the Emirates Durham ICG at a meeting at County Hall today.
The club started foundation work at the ground in pre-season and will now consult contractors to see if the lights can be used this term.
Chief executive David Harker said: "This is a hugely significant decision for Durham County Cricket Club.
"We are all absolutely thrilled because having floodlights at the ground is vital to the future of the club, and means that international cricket will continue to be played here in the North East.
"There was a danger that we were perceived to be slipping behind the game at a time when we are looking to renew contracts with Emirates and agree new sponsorship deals.
"People have to have the confidence that we are moving forward as an international ground, and this decision means that we are."