Wakefield rule out ground-share

Wakefield looked to have distanced themselves from a ground-share with Castleford by re-iterating their plans to develop a new stadium at Newmarket.

With Wakefield Council raising questions regarding the funding for both stadia in the current economic climate, a possible ground-share was suggested, prompting a mixed reaction from fans anxious over the Super League future of both clubs.

However, a joint statement from the Wildcats and the Wakefield and District Community Stadium Trust has indicated a firm desire to continue on with the Newmarket development.

Wildcats chairman Ted Richardson said: “Over recent weeks there has been much speculation about where we, Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, would play in the 2012 season. We are now delighted to confirm that all parties are all in agreement that Newmarket is the ONLY stadium project that will carry the Wakefield name and that we will play in. We will remain steadfast in this goal.”

Newmarket was suggested as a possible location for any shared stadium, together with Glasshoughton, the proposed site of Castleford’s new stadium.

Sir Rodney Walker, chairman of the Wakefield and District Community Stadium Trust said: “At a recent meeting involving senior people from Wakefield Council, the owner of the land at Newmarket, the Wakefield and District Community Trust and Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, an understanding was reached recognising that the Wildcats would concentrate their support for Newmarket and that a move to Glasshoughton was NOT an option.”

Castleford are expected to issue a statement outlining their position on Tuesday.