PLANS for a new stadium to be built in Workington are gaining support after it was revealed talks for a sponsorship deal to name the facility could fetch a six-figure sum.

And Workington Town and Workington Reds clubs said there was a positive vibe among fans after they issues a joint leaflet to dissipate fears around the move.

Councillor Mark Fryer, deputy leader of Allerdale council, has been leading the project for the new stadium.

He confirmed the authority was in talks with companies for a sponsorship deal to name the new facility, which would

also include office space for Sellafield workers as well as a NHS Community Primary Care Centre.

Coun Fryer, who has responsibility for economic growth, said: “It’s been refreshing to see that a number of companies were receptive to investing in the new facility when the project goes ahead.”

It is understood the council could secure a six-figure sum for giving the successful company the right to name the stadium.

The 8,000-capacity sporting venue was a cornerstone of Allerdale council’s successful bid to host the matches of the Rugby League World Cup in 2021.

The facility is to replace Workington Reds’ home at Borough Park and Workington Town’s base of Derwent Park.

The clubs have both seen a positive response from the joint leaflet, outlining the key facts for the stadium.

After months of wrangling, many supporters were still confused over the facts surrounding the new-build and the clubs decided to put together an easy guide for fans.

And after handing it out over the weekend, representatives said it has produced a positive vibe around hopes for the new stadium, with both clubs enjoying bumper attendances over the Easter weekend.

Town saw just shy of 2,000 people head to Derwent Park for the Good Friday derby with Whitehaven, which proves there is still a strong appetite for rugby league in the area.

And Workington Reds saw just under 700 at Borough Park, their biggest crowd of the season, for what could be their last ever game on the ground.

Town chairman Les Smallwood said: “We have had such a positive response from the leaflets at both clubs.

“We believed there had been a lack of information and supporters had lots of questions so we hope that these have cleared up a lot of issues for fans.

“We have had so many people saying to us that they think the stadium will provide a bright future and that is not only for the two clubs but also for the youngsters of the area and the wider community.

“And last Friday’s bumper crowd showed that with a positive and different social media approach, we can still attract large crowds.”

And businessman and Carlisle United fan Andrew Lapping also publicly praised Allerdale council for its vision and plan to fund the stadium.

Last month, the authority agreed to go down the investor-developer route to fund the stadium. Under the plans, the council would sell a long leasehold and the investor would then work with the developer to build the stadium. Once the stadium is completed, the investor would then lease it back to the council or operating company.

Mr Lepping said: “Looks like Workington have found a possible way to fund their new stadium with some creative work with a developer and the council. It’s a great PFI- type deal but of a much lower rate of interest and offset by some supporting development – I think it’s a great deal for all. Well done the council for a great enabling development. Why Carlisle cannot follow the lead is beyond me?”

Mr Lepping’s proposals for Carlisle United were shelved after the approach from billionaire Yahya Kirdi. He fronted plans by a group of businessmen prepared to back the club as part of an investment package and restructure that would have pumped £1.26 million into United.