OXFORD CITY have agreed in principle to a new partnership with neighbours Oxford United to share the facilities at their Court Place Farm ground.
If the plans go ahead, League One side United would set up a supporters' club and retail outlet at City's ground which they hope would ultimately host their women's team and academy side.
The main playing surface would be switched to 3G, a move that City were hoping to make last summer before delays put paid to the idea.
United also hope that they can create a permanent training home at Court Place Farm and both clubs expect the move to benefit the local community.
A joint venture trading company will be set up if the plans are approved to lease and operate the stadium, with both clubs owning 50 per cent.
To help out cash-strapped City, currently 13th in the National League South, United owner Daryl Eales will provide them with a “charitable donation”.
City general manager and former first team boss Justin Merritt said: “We have developed a strong partnership with Oxford United in the past few seasons and in the past few months have undertaken a series of positive and creative meetings.
“We have focussed on the positives a partnership could bring and by maximising the use of the stadium pitch, facilities and commercial opportunities it will enable a strong future for both clubs.
“The partnership has huge potential and from the outset has been structured with the needs of all parties in mind.”
United chief Eales added: “Relatively unusually, this really is a win-win solution. We are delighted to be able to help Oxford City whilst also establishing a broader base for Oxford United commercially as well as hopefully for our first team and our women's team.
“We have established an excellent relationship with Justin and Paul Lyon and believe that we can work exceptionally well together to benefit both clubs and the community.”
