“SIGNIFICANT progress” has been made in the long-running process of trying to bring Darlington FC back to its hometown, officials said tonight.

The club is now in its fourth season of playing at Bishop Auckland FC’s ground after leaving The Northern Echo Arena in 2012, but it has long-been the ambition of fans and officials to see the team playing home games back in Darlington.

Discussions between Darlington Rugby Football Club and Darlington FC concerning a ground share at Blackwell Meadows have been running for many months and both clubs have tonight reported significant progress.

Michael Wilkinson, Chairman of Darlington Rugby Football Club acknowledged the support of Darlington MP Jenny Chapman, and Darlington Borough Council in the process and said: “On behalf of Darlington Rugby Football Club’s board of directors, I able to confirm that both clubs have made significant advances towards achieving an agreement that facilities the return of Darlington FC to its home town.”

DARLO DIARY: Another busy week in the life of Darlington FC

However Mr Wilkinson added that there were still a number of crucial elements that had to be concluded.

These elements include leasing of additional land, final release of grant and funding applications, planning permission and commercial agreements.

Mr Wilkinson concluded by stressing that significant progress has been made in the last three weeks.

Dave Mills, Director of Darlington 1883 Ltd, added: “The ‘ground share’ process is complex but it is important to state that the board of directors of both parties are fully committed and determined to resolve all matters to a satisfactory conclusion.”

Mr Mills explained that the club was denied an extension to its request for a Football Stadia Improvement Fund (FSIF) grant offer but has been encouraged by the FSIF to re-apply when final agreements between both clubs have been finalised.

“The Board of Darlington 1883 Ltd is heartened by this encouragement,” he said.

“I am also determined to further galvanise the relationship that Darlington Football Club has with its Supporters Group, in its role of corporate director and majority shareholder.

“To this end John Tempest, chair of the Darlington Football Club Supporters Group and representative of the corporate director, has been actively involved in the most recent discussions alongside me with the rugby club, and will continue to do so going forward.”