A council decision supporting a multi-million dollar development of the Balmain Leagues Club site is a defining moment in the history of the famous rugby league club, Wests Tigers chairman David Trodden says.

Leichhardt Council approved the $130 million development in Rozelle, in Sydney's inner-west, with councillors voting 6-5 in favour of the application.

Mr Trodden said there were grave concerns Balmain Leagues Club would have gone broke had the council voted the other way - forcing it out of the joint venture with Western Suburbs.

"This is a landmark day in the proud 100 years history of the Balmain Tigers," he said.

"It was a long meeting - there was overwhelming support from everyone associated with the Balmain club from players, supporters to referees.

"This will allow for a mixed use re-development comprising of a new club, residential units, a supermarket and specialty retail."

The new development will include 160 apartments, 12 terrace houses, retail space and restaurants.

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