Swinton Lions Rugby League Club (SLRLC) has announced that it expects work to start on its new £3.5m stadium by 1 January 2012, with plans currently at an "advanced stage".

The new Agecroft venue in the Greater Manchester area will be able to accommodate 4,000-5,000 spectators and could be open by the end of April. SLRLC chair John Kidd said: "There is a willingness displayed by all parties to make the Agecroft development work and the plan is to see everything in place to commence building on site no later than 1 January 2012.

"If the start date of January 1 can be achieved, it is hoped that the stadium would be finished no later than April 30, 2012 in what will, hopefully, be a first season in the Championship."