Bari's Stadio San Nicola, the designated venue for Italy's Euro 2008 qualifier with Scotland on March 28, has been declared fully fit to admit spectators as of Sunday.

The San Nicola had been one of the 25 venues closed to spectators by Italian security chiefs in the security crackdown that followed the death of a police officer at the Sicily derby between Catania and Palermo two weeks ago.

However, Prefect of Police Antonio Manganelli, in charge of the operation, revealed the stadium was now fit for purpose.

Manganelli told reporters: "The stadia that meet the norms are Bari and Parma. They will be open to everyone from Sunday.

"Bologna and Reggio Calabria (the home of Reggina) will be open only to season ticketholders."

The decision would appear to clear the Italy versus Scotland match to be played at the stadium which was designed by famous architect Renzo Piano for the 1990 World Cup.

It also staged the 1991 European Cup final between Red Star Belgrade and Marseille.

The ruling was welcomed by Scotland fans, with an estimated 10,000 having made plans to travel to Italy.

Hamish Husband, spokesman for the Association of Tartan Army Clubs, told said: "This is excellent news.

"Common sense has prevailed in that they have delayed in making their decision.

"If they had bowed to pressure last week to make a decision they might have moved the game."

Husband believes the Tartan Army will be welcomed in the city.

The Scots will receive at least 5,800 tickets if the game goes ahead as expected at full capacity in Bari.

Italian sports minister Giovanna Melandri had previously assured fans that international supporters would be welcomed.

In meetings to discuss the trip, Husband has sensed a willingness from the local authorities to welcome as many Scots as possible.

He said: "I believe they haven't played an international in Bari for many years.

"It was Bari as a city that lobbied for this game. Bari announced it locally before the official announcement.

"One of the things they want is the spending power of the thousands of Scotland fans."

The Scottish Football Association are still awaiting confirmation that the clash will go ahead as planned in Bari on March 28.

A spokesman said: "We have been waiting to hear from the Italian FA.

"Until we hear directly from them as to exactly what the situation is, it's difficult to comment fully.

"But we will be satisfied that the match goes ahead in Bari as initially planned - because that is where supporters and the team have made travel arrangements for."