The Shore Road outfit, in conjunction with north Belfast Amateur League side Newington, today (Thursday) unveiled ambitious plans for a shared community stadium near the Valley Leisure Centre.

The proposal provides for a 4,200 seater stadium, modern training facilities, executive facilities and commercial space for sports and educational provision

The launch, held at the Lansdowne Court Hotel, heard from senior figures such as Howard Wells (IFA), Eamon McCartan (Sport NI) and Fintan Drury (Platinum One sports consultancy) as well as from investors, educationalists and sports business academics.

The clubs will now lobby both Belfast and Newtownabbey Councils seeking a partnership development opportunity at either Grove Park in Belfast or the Valley Park in Newtownabbey.

Commenting, Crusaders manager, Stephen Baxter said: "This is a fantastic, ambitious, visionary project but is grounded in sound financial and hard-headed business acumen. I have been fully briefed on progress over the past year and believe our stadium working group have cracked it – developing the ideal model for sustainable local football.

"Our vision is founded on two fundamentals. First, all the ingredients for a sound sports and leisure business. Second, good community relations – providing opportunities for all the community to join in as players, participants, spectators – and providing a first class leisure and recreation experience."

He added: "We have made great progress in the last few years on the field and in developing our youth structure. Further progress depends on developing non football income and significantly widening our support and customer base. Good community relations, a modern stadium, a step change in our schools and youth academy and community sport programmes will all help us reach a different level.

"And lest we forget – what's the alternative? We are unashamedly ambitious, but without this sort of ambition, commitment and faith, the local game can only face terminal decline. What's to lose? Let's give it a go!"

Eamon McCarthy, Manager of Newington FC, commented: "Both Newington and Crusaders have deep roots in communities across North Belfast and Newtownabbey. We will use this strength to manage one of the few potential shared spaces in the urban area. The project will have ample space for other clubs and sports – including GAA and Rugby. This is a much needed vision which could not come a minute sooner. We're committed to making it happen."