In a statement, owner Brian Kennedy said the facilities at the Stockport FC stadium were no longer viable and he invited local councils and potential business partners to join him in building a new stadium.

He said: “We need better facilities to give our loyal fans and future supporters a great match day experience. We can achieve this by the development of Edgeley Park or through the encouragement and help of the local authorities, local businesses and fellow entrepreneurs to build a new stadia in whichever borough we can be accommodated. Please contact me if this inspires you to get involved.

“We have engendered an enthusiasm for rugby union in the North West, partly on the playing side and although we have lost some superstars, which has set us back, we are investing the absolute maximum of the £4m wage cap each season to recruit and develop the stars of tomorrow.”

Kennedy has previously held talks with Manchester City Council and Lancashire County Cricket Club over possible relocation.