The league’s initial 12 teams was expanded to 14 for this season with the inclusion of BSC Glasgow and Edinburgh University.

Both Duns and Coldsteream were unsuccessful with their applications last year.

But improvements at both New Hawthorn Park and Home Park could see them meet the required criteria this time.

Speaking on Friday league Chairman Andrew Waddell told the Border Telegraph: “The Board of the League have determined that there will be an opportunity for clubs to apply for membership for next season.

“The precise number of vacancies will depend on the effect of promotion and relegation into and out of the SLFL.

“I would encourage any clubs who may interested in applying, and will meet the criteria, to make contact with us.” It has already been agreed that a play-off will take place between the champions of the Lowland League and the Highland League with the winner facing a further play-off against the team bottom of Scottish League Two.

Lowland chiefs have indicated previously that they would ideally like a 16-team league, which would leave either two or three spaces for clubs which either meet, or are working towards, the criteria.

Applicant clubs must have a club licence from the SFA or have fully-funded plans to obtain such a licence by the end of May.

Applications may be submitted from now until March 31, with ground inspections due to take place in April.

Interested clubs should contact league secretary, David Baxter at secretary@slfl.co.uk