Workington Town could face some extra travelling in 2025 if they are still in League One then.
Anglian Vipers (Norfolk), Bedford Tigers and Goole Vikings have all applied to join the third tier next season as the Rugby Football League looks to create two new divisions of 12 teams below Super League for 2026.
Initially a total of 11 clubs made enquiries about joining but before the June 18 deadline these were the only three to make formal bids.
A decision is expected by the end of September and the successful club will be part of League One next season.
The Vipers were formed two years ago in Wymondham, Norfolk and played their first games last season in the East League.
Bedford Tigers play in the same competition as Vipers, as well as the Southern Conference while Goole play in the Yorkshire Men’s League.
The three applications will now be considered, with visits to the applicants to assess their home stadia and other facilities, which will be followed by formal presentations at Rugby League’s Etihad Campus headquarters in August – and a decision expected by the end of September.
The existing Betfred League 1 clubs, including Workington Town were updated on the process yesterday.
