The Rugby Football Union faces court action by lower league clubs unless controversial plans to restructure the National Leagues are dropped.
Following a two-year review, the Union will this week lay out their proposals for the future of league rugby below the Championship.
The Rugby Paper understands recommendations from a steering group headed by Surrey RFU Council representative John Douglas include:
- Reducing the number of clubs in National League One from 16 to 14, with two clubs relegated instead of three.
- The creation of a new Level 4 consisting of four regionalised leagues of 12 clubs, with play-offs to decide which two teams are promoted.
- The creation below that of a new Level 5 consisting of eight regionalised leagues of 12 clubs, again including promotion play-offs.
- The creation of new cup competitions at Levels 4 and 5.
Proposals will be put to the RFU Council in April and, if ratified, will come into effect from the start of season 2015-16.
The plan is intended to reduce travelling costs and create more local derbies in tiers four and five. But existing National League One and Two clubs have reacted furiously, claiming the new structure will only dilute playing standards.
They argue that fewer home league matches will reduce income and that the RFU is riding roughshod over the majority view after previously agreeing to maintain the status quo at a meeting with clubs in Burton last October.
Mike Harrison, chairman of rugby at National One outfit Wharfedale, raged: “The RFU have trampled all over us. Of 48 clubs, there was only one that voted for regionalisation and they promised us faithfully it was off the table.
“Reducing National One to 14 clubs would be disastrous because we would lose a load of revenue, and regionalisation at Level 4 would be disastrous because if you have four regions instead of two, you’ll reduce standards of play.
“I’ve been on the NCA committee for 20 years and this is as mad as I’ve ever seen people. I’m exasperated and the clubs are livid. The RFU took soundings from us and simply took no notice, but they’re going to face a fight.”
In an email to the 48 National One and Two clubs, a copy of which has been obtained by The Rugby Paper, a senior club official wrote: “The RFU have totally ignored our views… enough is enough.
“I suggest a resolution to the RFU AGM that the structure of the National Leagues will not be altered without the agreement of a majority of our clubs. Failing that… a vote of no confidence in the Chair of Community Rugby and the review group.
“If all else fails, an injunction to the courts to stop the RFU damaging our businesses.”
NEALE HARVEY
