AMBITIOUS Poole Town are exploring the possibility of ground sharing in a bid to finally regain their Southern League status – with vice-chairman Chris Reeves open to Dean Court as a potential venue.

Reeves is looking into the viability of arranging a ground share with another local club as the reigning Wessex League champions weigh-up their promotion prospects.

While remaining tight-lipped on possible locations, Reeves confessed that a switch to Dean Court could be an option, but only if it proved economical and AFC Bournemouth were in favour.

Dolphins are no strangers to hosting games at alternative venues as they led a nomadic existence after being ejected from Poole Stadium in 1994, a decision which led to the club playing at Cherries' home and a series of other local grounds before they settled at Tatnam.

Discussing Dean Court, Reeves said: "If it was economically viable, then it would be a fantastic place to play. Quite apart from anything else, it's one of the closest (potential venues).

"If AFC Bournemouth felt they could accommodate us and it wouldn't be too expensive, that would be perfect. I wouldn't rule it out completely.

"It isn't where we are targeting but if your article or even speaking to them creates an opportunity, then fine.

"I'm assuming as soon as you open the doors for any game the sort of expenditure would make it uneconomical."

Other local grounds which meet Southern League ground grading requirements include ones at Dorchester Town, Weymouth, Bashley, New Milton Town and Wimborne Town.

Poole were denied promotion last season when their Tatnam home failed to meet regulations. The club's controversial plans for a new home at Branksome Rec ended in failure last month and they have since proposed a move to Canford Arena. But while those plans are being worked on, Poole would need an alternative ground if they wanted to play in the Southern League next term.

Reeves said: "We've been encouraged to apply for promotion by the Football Association and would not have done it had we not been encouraged. They've said if we can put a ground share agreement in place quickly and if the situation with Canford Arena continues to progress, we'll be considered for promotion, assuming we win the league."

Reeves revealed that Dolphins were planning to canvas supporters' opinions on how they think the club should move forward next season. One option is to remain in the Wessex League, while the other, a move up to the Southern League, would need a ground share agreement and would increase expenditure when funds are needed for the Canford Arena project.

Reeves added: "At the moment, we're pressing on, encouraged tremendously by the Football Association support. We're pressing on so that we preserve all our options."

Poole are favourites to retain the Wessex League championship this season, while Wimborne Town have also applied for a move up to step four.