Central Coast Mariners' use of their home ground may be in jeopardy just six weeks out from the start of the season because of outstanding bills of about $300,000 for unpaid loans and venue rental fees.

The Mariners' opening day derby against Newcastle Jets on October 11 could be under threat as it is understood the A-League club has been warned by the venue's owner, Gosford City Council, that the gates will not be opened until all debts have been repaid, some of which were accumulated under previous administrations.

Storm Roux of the Mariners heads the ball over Mark Bridge of the Wanderers during the A-League semi final. Credit:Getty Images

The club owes the council about $100,000 in unpaid stadium rental fees and is negotiating another sum of about $200,000. The outstanding rental fees were accumulated over the course of last season and, while the club has agreed to a payment plan to clear the debt by October 30, senior officials have been warned they may be denied the right to hire the venue until the debts are repaid. The Mariners purchased the scoreboard with financial assistance from the council in 2008 but are still yet to repay the full amount believed to be close to $200,000.

Mariners chief executive Bruce Stalder said the club is confident of repaying the full amount before the start of the season and is working closely with Gosford City Council to find a solution. "The club was helped by the council in getting the screen together," Stalder said. "We haven't concluded our side of paying it back or worked out how we want to use it in the future. We have to finish this and resolve the matter."