Irish League club chairman calls ground share deal 'most obvious no-brainer'
Cliftonville chairman Kevin Crossan has described a decision to allow Newington to host their home matches at Solitude next season as the “most obvious no-brainer”.
Championship outfit Newington have spent the past four campaigns staging home games at Larne’s Inver Park, but will return to North Belfast from next term after the two Irish League clubs announced an agreement.
Newington last played at Solitude during their 2021/22 Premier Intermediate League title-winning season and are coming off their best finish in Northern Ireland’s second-tier after ending the most recent campaign in fourth.
Only H&W Welders (87) scored more goals than Newington (77) – former Cliftonville and Glentoran striker Jay Donnelly led the way by netting 29 times in 36 appearances while older brother Ruaidhri Donnelly registered 13.
“The most obvious no-brainer in North Belfast football is happening at the start of the 2026/27 season,” said Crossan. “Cliftonville Football Club are delighted to announce the return of Newington to play their home games at Solitude.
“For two Clubs based less than a mile from each other, it makes perfect sense for Solitude to be the home of both until such times that Newington have a home of their own.
“The links between the two Clubs go back generations, from the late, great Danny Hale to a more recent hero named George McMulllan.
“This latest development will prove to be a positive step forward not only for both Clubs but, more importantly, for the greater community of North Belfast."
Newington secretary Michael Mezza added: “Positive news for football in North Belfast. Newington FC and Cliftonville FC are coming together in a ground-sharing arrangement.
“Having lived in the area all my life, I’ve seen first-hand the passion for the game and the vital role Clubs play at the heart of our community.
“This is a progressive step – strengthening the local game, maximising facilities in an area where they are limited and creating more opportunities for people to connect through football.
“A move that benefits both clubs – and, more importantly, the wider North Belfast community.”
Solitude could also be hosting European football this summer – Cliftonville will enter next month’s Premiership play-offs while Dungannon Swifts have nominated the venue if they qualify for continental action.