Plans to build an ambitious community stadium for Grimsby Town Football Club (GTFC) have gathered pace after the council earmarked six potential locations for the development.

The six sites were shortlisted by North East Lincolnshire Council following a survey carried out on the suitability of 16 sites by environmental consultants SLR.

Peaks Parkway, GTFC’s preferred location, features in the shortlist alongside Europarc, land next to Morrison’s supermarket in Laceby, Great Coates, Dockside and Freeman Street.

The locations will now be subject to a more detailed study – known as a first stage feasibility study – although the specification of which is yet to be agreed. The findings are due to be presented to the Cabinet in the New Year.

Councillor Ray Oxby, leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, said the “saga over a potential new stadium has dragged on too long”.

“I appreciate some people may be frustrated at the time it is taking the football club to find a new home, but I want to be clear that it isn’t the current council administration that’s delaying the process,” he added.

“We have the desire and the appetite to see that it happens, and that it happens soon, but it needs to be done correctly.”

Last year, GTFC revealed plans for a £200m ($301m, €284m) development, which included a 14,000 capacity stadium, as well as housing and retail development.

The National League club has played at the Blundell Park in Cleethorpes since 1899.