LONDON — The Church of England may have female bishops within two years, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, said after its governing body voted to restart work on plans rejected last year.

“We’re at the very early stage, but there are good signs at the moment,” Welby told BBC Radio 4 Tuesday. “Those who hold a range of different opinions will still be able to flourish.”

Welby said approval may happen “sometime roundabout 2015,” adding “we’re trying to push it ahead as quickly as possible but bringing everyone with us.”

The General Synod, the church’s governing body, voted Monday to move forward on a new draft law. In November, the synod failed to reach a two-thirds majority in all three of its houses to approve the consecration of women as bishops, 20 years after they were allowed to become priests.

Welby said the new plan “goes about it a different way” and would satisfy opponents of women bishops that their views would be respected.