Statement from Crossford Futures, Old Altrinchamians FC, Sale Harriers Manchester, Sale Sharks and Sale United FC:

“We can confirm all parties have now entered into early dialogue around the vision for the potential development of Crossford Bridge and intend to hold preliminary discussions as part of a more detailed consultation which will take place in the coming weeks. Our shared priority is ensuring that all involved, including the clubs, local residents and the wider community benefit from any proposals for the site.

“We would like to reiterate that no solutions will be put forward in the second phase of consultation in the autumn that do not meet with the approval from all of the parties involved, especially Sale United FC, Sale Harriers Manchester and Old Altrinchamians FC. Local residents and all the children who enjoy the current facilities will then have an opportunity to provide significant feedback as part of that second phase of consultation.”