Zingari-Richmond and Harbour hope to enter a strategic relationship which will see the clubs field combined teams in all grades below premier level next year.
The new relationship is just a proposal at this stage, but the clubs agree in principle to strengthening ties. The structure and many other details still needs to be worked through but the clubs are confident of reaching an agreement.
They are also looking at sharing the services and costs of a development officer, who would be responsible for co-ordinating the coaching and management requirements, and providing a link between the lower grades and the premier teams.
In a press release, the clubs said "combined teams have become a reality for a number of clubs over the last couple of years as the sport struggles to maintain player numbers''.
The decision to combined resources was seen as "proactive'' and the relationship would "be beneficial for the players and the two clubs alike''.
"The clubs will be able to offer players greatly enhanced training and social facilities, as well as a dual pathway to premier rugby.''
There was no detail in the press release about how the clubs' development programme would be structured or how it would work.
"There is still detail to be worked through ... however, the committees of both clubs are confident of a positive outcome.''
"The clubs emphasise that they are not merging. They will continue to run separate premier programmes, each will continue with their existing committee structures, and will each continue to run their separate junior clubs.
"Both clubs will be rejuvenated and strengthened through the new relationship, while maintaining their individual histories and identities.''
