IDENTIFYING three possible sites for a new York City ground marks a big step forward for the club.

All the very real fears that City could end up homeless and groundless now seem to be safely in the past.

The club bought time with the £2 million loan it secured from the Football Foundation to acquire Bootham Crescent, a deal which was conditional on City moving within ten years.

Now three sites have been pinpointed for the building of a new multi-purpose sports stadium, which would house York City and other clubs too.

The three potential locations are: green-belt land at Naburn; the York Central site; and the Terry's factory site.

Each of these sites has distinct advantages and much lively discussion is expected at the club, among fans and within the communities where the stadium could be built.

Naburn has the space and good road links, which are a clear bonus. Yet both Terry's and York Central offer the advantage of being in the city.

York City has a long history of playing right in the middle of York. So transferring the ground to York Central, a tear-drop shaped piece of land behind York Railway Station, would see the club still playing in the heart of the city.

Transport links would be good too, especially with the station being so handy.

But all three are interesting possibilities and at least now the club has the time to make a considered choice.

Updated: 10:10 Thursday, November 25, 2004