MELBOURNE'S long-term move to Cranbourne is back on solid ground after the latest round of talks between the club and the City of Casey.

Demons chief executive Cameron Schwab met council officials on Friday amid claims the club was baulking at making a long-term commitment to the region.

But Schwab said yesterday progress had been made on a potential 30-year arrangement that has undergone months of negotiations.

The City of Casey will tick off on funding for new facilities at Casey Fields only if Melbourne commits to up to $600,000 worth of community involvement every year for the next 30 years.

The Demons begin pre-season training at Casey Fields on November 1, regardless of council talks.

"We had a very positive meeting on Friday. I think it's back on track and we're hopeful that we can move it forward," Schwab said.

"There's no resigning at all from our commitment to the program, but obviously it's a challenge in terms of putting together a 30-year agreement with the City of Casey.

"It requires a bit more work, but we feel progress has been made."

Casey is willing to contribute $2.24 million towards the new facility for the Demons' football department which will require a major extension of the pavilion at Casey Fields.

Without council funding it would be extremely unlikely the Demons could relocate to Casey on a permanent basis.

Schwab said the club was mindful the decision would affect future Melbourne administrations.

"It's about recognising that all the aspects of the 30-year agreement stand the test of time and that doesn't happen easily," he said.

"The main part of the plan was to establish ourselves as part of the community and having a good facility in a location to do that was always the preference.

"Working closely with the council gives you a much better chance of achieving the outcomes you're seeking from a community perspective. We're confident that we can resolve it."

Casey chief executive Mike Tyler did not return calls yesterday.