By Fatima Mrad

16 January 2013 - The Torch

THE Bulldogs will maintain their hold on their historic home at Belmore Sportsground with a 21-year lease expected to be formalised next month.

"We're very excited about the prospect," Bulldogs CEO Todd Greenberg told the Torch.

"You can never underestimate the importance of players working in the local community every day. It's a significant pillar of the club's plan to return to our historical base at Belmore."

The Bulldogs returned to their training base at Belmore last year after a seven year stint at Homebush.

The Bulldogs have now been offered the head lease of the grounds, while Sydney Olympic Football Club has been offered sub-tenancy terms.

Mr Greenberg said the relationship between the two is "fantastic."

"Belmore is a community facility, not just for rugby league," he said.

"It's a very busy precinct. We see a lot of people in and around the club; and the players having coffee in the main street in Belmore, and talking to local business owners, it's all important and gives local kids aspiration to play for their local club."

Canterbury Council's general manager Jim Montague said a report will be presented to the February 28 meeting for its determination on the lease.

"Belmore has been the spiritual home of the Bulldogs since the club first entered the NSW Rugby League in 1935," Mr Montague said.

In 1998, the club played their last home game at Belmore, and in 2005, moved their training facilities to Hombush.

The Bulldogs returned in 2012 following a $9 million revamp to the Sportsground.

"We're looking to build on what was a very successful 2012, both on and off the field," Mr Greenberg said.