The directors of Darlington Rugby Football Club and Darlington Football Club are delighted to announce that they are in the final stages of agreeing Heads of Terms for the sharing of facilities at Blackwell Meadows and thereby setting a target for the football club to be able to play league & cup matches on the site during the 2014/5 season, satisfying all FA and league facility requirements.

Both clubs share the common objective of providing community based sports facilities and opportunities for the benefit of Darlington and surrounding areas. The alliance between the clubs now strengthens the ability to achieve this shared objective and comes on the back of many months of work and discussions on both sides.

Negotiations are still ongoing in respect of final designs, specifications and construction costs, however both clubs will drive the delivery of the project to realistic timescales and at a high professional standard. The football club has shared this strategy with its Advisory Panel, receiving positive support and encouragement to the plans. Darlington RFC will announce shortly plans to hold an open forum for members to answer any questions they may have.

As Blackwell Meadows is already being utilised for sporting activity, this agreement will accelerate the football club’s ability to return to Darlington quickly and in controlled and visible phases. Also, given the facilities already in place, the opportunity also exists to grow essential off-field commercial revenues for both clubs though increased footfall and local interest, thereby giving both clubs financial sustainability.