Sale Sharks have ruled out a possible move to Bury FC's Gigg Lane from next season.

The newly-crowned Parker Pen Shield champions were hoping to increase their status in the north-east by groundsharing with the cash-strapped Third Division club.

But on Monday the Sharks announced they would instead be staying at Heywood Road for the forseeable future.

"We all know that the facilities at Heywood Road fall short of everyone's expectations," said Sharks owner Brian Kennedy.

"They will not sustain professional rugby long term, but at this moment in time we need a level of certainty in order to plan our marketing activity for the forthcoming season."

The move is a blow to Kennedy's plans to increase the club's fan base and revenue.

And given Bury's recent financial crisis, with the club currently in administration, a ground-sharing arrangement would have suited both parties.

Bury hope to reach an agreement with their major creditors by the end of this week.

Kennedy also examined the possibility of a ground-share deal with rugby league outfit Warrington.

The prospect of moving into Maine Road when Manchester City relocate in 12 months' time was also considered.