The Magpies are set to kick off their 2020-21 campaign this weekend when they host Gateshead at Victory Park in the FA Cup second qualifying round.
The league opener follows on Tuesday when Jamie Vermiglio’s men travel to York.
As things stand, both games are to be played behind closed doors and it’s likely not all of Chorley’s games will be played in front of a crowd for the next six months.
The National League is locked in negotiations with the government over a financial package to help its clubs survive without much-needed gate receipts.
It is possible that without financial aid, National League clubs will not start the season as they will not be able to fulfill their players’ contracts.
Chorley chairman Ken Wright has said the club will fold by the end of the year if fans are not allowed back inside Victory Park or there are no proposed financial bailout.
They are looking for ways to fill the financial hole and live streaming of games could be a source of income.
They are also considering other fundraising initiatives during these difficult times.
The club’s chief executive, Terry Robinson, said: “Our revenue consists primarily of gate revenue coupled with matchday sponsorship and various other ancillary expenses.
“League funds came in early to make up for the early end to last season. Revenue was very much reduced and at one point the black and white draw was our only revenue.
“The social club has been closed since March, so again another source of income has become non-existent.
“On Wednesday, the National League North held a video meeting with almost all the clubs present. The clubs are a mix of different views, financial levels and goals and objectives.
“So it was interesting to note that 80% agreed that we as a league could not start unless our loss of revenue, due to Covid, was somehow subsidized to allow all clubs to pay salaries.
“The major problem is that when a ball is kicked, the players’ contracts start.
“In our opinion, it is irresponsible and a dereliction of duty by directors and managers to start the season without fans and without any agreed compensation.
“It is believed that the National League and the government are in talks and hopefully by next Friday we will have some positive news.
“If it is possible to start the season, then we will have other problems. How can we bring football to our season ticket holders and supporters?
“We are discussing the live broadcast of matches where there will be a fixed price per match or for the full season.
“Subscription holders will benefit from the service free of charge. We also plan to sell tickets in the sports club where the matches will be shown on the big screen both in the main hall and, if you are interested, with a meal in the living room 1883.
“This is a real possibility and we would like to assess whether our supporters will be interested. Please email your comments to us at [email protected] or call 01257-230007.”
