A RUGBY region in North Wales moved a step closer after it is believed Ospreys and Scarlets are set to merge.

As part of the significant structure changes made by the Welsh Rugby Union as part of Project Reset, the two powerhouses have been instructed to look into the possibility of merging to make room for a new region based in the north, which would represent a massive boost to the sport in the region.

The plans could be confirmed at a special Professional Rugby Board meeting on Tuesday, March 5, although it is not yet known when the possible changes will take place.

A meeting on Monday evening between representatives from a joint supporters group, WRU chief executive Martyn Phillips and Ryan Jones, and a statement on the group’s Twitter account stated the organisation would be making a further announcement once the details have been revealed.

It read: “As the Joint Supporters Group we have met tonight with Martyn Phillips and Ryan Jones from the WRU/PRB.

“We have had an open and frank discussion about Project Reset and have been informed that there is a critical meeting tomorrow. We will make a further joint statement after the outcome of that is known.

"Rest assured that we have asked all of your questions and expressed our collective disappointment at the lack of communication during this process with supporters."

Should a region in the area be confirmed, it would be another massive boost for rugby in North Wales, with the game going from strength-to-strength thanks in no small part to the supreme rise to prominence of RGC 1404.

They have risen to the Principality Premiership and also scooped the WRU National Cup in 2017, building a strong Academy system and boosting participation through various community related initiatives at youth level.