MERGER plans for the South West Peninsula League and Western League have been scrapped following an FA intervention.

English football's governing body had hoped to combine the two leagues into one, creating five divisions of 18 clubs at Steps 5 and 6 from next season.

However, talks between officials in the two leagues broke down over the delegation of roles within the proposed new entity.

When the FA stepped in, the proposal could not be revived and the idea has now been shelved.

The league merger was originally proposed to cut costs for travelling teams, shortening journey times.

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In a statement, the South West Peninsula League revealed the FA would consult members clubs of both leagues over the next step.

"The FA have written to both leagues and confirmed that the proposals to change FA regulations to allow the merger have been withdrawn," it read.

"Both leagues had submitted alternative proposals to keep the restructure in place, but were both rejected as The FA state timescales for changing FA regulations cannot be met.

"The normal promotion and regulation rules that apply nationally still exist for the end of this season, but it is regretted that the merger will not now happen.

"The FA will now consult clubs in both leagues for future direction."

The decision affects Dorset teams Bridport, Sherborne Town and Gillingham Town.