GREAT HARWOOD FC are hoping to get the go-ahead to groundshare with neighbours Accrington Stanley next season.
Harwood finished last season at the Interlink Express Stadium after the burning-down of their dressing rooms complex made the Showground unplayable.
Talks are at an advanced stage between the two clubs with Harwood chairman Bill Holden optimistic that a deal will be struck.
"We could not play North West Counties football at the Showground next season so without the help of Eric Whalley and Accrington that would be the end of it," he said.
"If we get confirmation that will give us 12 months grace and then we can look at the situation at our ground. We need to get a new lease down there."
Provided final details can be sorted out, Harwood will play their "home'' games on a Saturday afternoon, alternating with Stanley's Conference fixtures.
Although confirmation of their relegation may not come until the league's AGM in mid-June, Harwood are preparing for life in NWCL Division Two next season.
Manager John Hughes is expected to stay at the helm and Holden is looking to put the club's recent troubles behind them.
"There is no point looking back. We have got to look forward with optimism and hopefully we will get a bit more luck in the future," he added.
