KELTY HEARTS have invited supporters to express their views on a proposed new Conference League ahead of a vote by SPFL clubs on the issue.

The New Central Park outfit, who were promoted from the East of Scotland League in 2018, before winning promotion to the SPFL in 2021 after winning the Lowland League, have said that the thoughts of their supporters and community are "essential" on the matter which, if it goes ahead, would see the creation of a new division at tier five of the Scottish football pyramid.

Under the proposals, which have drawn criticism from a number of clubs outwith the SPFL, a 10-team league, consisting of four SPFL 'B' teams, would be created for the 2024/25 season.

Currently, the Lowland League and Highland League sit at tier five, and the top four in the former, and top two in the latter, at the end of season 2023/24 would also be included.

'B' teams, three of which - Celtic, Heart of Midlothian and Rangers - currently play in the Lowland League, would not be eligible for promotion or relegation, and the Conference League would be funded by participation fees from the 'B' teams, with the other six clubs receiving an estimated payment of around £40,000 each per annum.

A minimum five-year commitment would be required from the 'B' teams and, at the end of the season, the highest placed side outwith 'B' clubs would enter the pyramid play-off with the team who finishes bottom of SPFL League Two, aligned with the current system of promotion and relegation to the SPFL.

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The lowest placed non-'B' team would be relegated to the Lowland or Highland league, replaced by the winner of a play-off between the champions of the respective leagues, whilst the loser of the Lowland and Highland league play-off would enter a promotion / relegation play-off with the second lowest non-'B' team in the Conference League.

In addition, 'B' teams must include a minimum of seven players eligible for Scotland in their starting XI, with a minimum of 11 included in their matchday squad.

Kelty said: "We would like to invite supporters to New Central Park tomorrow (Saturday 3rd June) at 1:30pm to discuss the upcoming SPFL vote on the New Conference League Proposal.

"We are your local football club and your input is important to us. Gathering the thoughts of the local supporters and community is essential before any decision can be made.

"All SPFL Member Clubs will be asked to vote on the creation of a new Conference League at Tier 5 at the Scottish FA AGM on June 6th."

The Pars Supporters Trust have canvassed views of its members on the matter, whilst Premiership Aberdeen have rejected an invitation to take part, and Raith Rovers have stated their intention to vote no to the proposal.