ALLERDALE council has officially informed the organisers of the Rugby League World Cup that it will not be able to host the tournament in 2021.

The discussion has taken place following the decision by Allerdale’s executive to reconsider plans for a new 8,000-capacity stadium in Workington.

The executive members asked council officers last week to continue looking into the business case for a new stadium, with a view to reducing the size and scale of the proposal.

The decision means that the council would not be able to meet the already tight deadlines of the RLWC, plus the original stadium requirements in the bidding process, and has therefore withdrawn from the process.

Marion Fitzgerald, leader of the council, said: “As the council moves forward with alternative plans for sporting facilities in the borough we want to continue to work with the RFL in developing a new shared stadium for Workington.

“We hope this will provide a long-term legacy for rugby league and football in the town, borough and West Cumbria as a whole.

“We are naturally disappointed the world cup will not be able to come to the area now and understand the excitement and benefits it would’ve brought.

“However, it is important we get a decision of this scale right for every person in Allerdale and fully consider the business case for a new facility.”