THE Old Firm will kick off the 2014-15 season on the weekend of August 9 and 10.

Celtic will be aiming for their fourth successive title, while Rangers will begin what they hope is the final journey on their way back to the top flight.

The SPFL expect the fixtures to be announced in June.

The Challenge Cup first round is on July 26-27, with the opening ties in the League Cup on August 2-3.

Dates for the draws for the first rounds both the Challenge Cup and Scottish League Cup will be announced in due course.

Neil Doncaster, SPFL chief executive, said: "The first official SPFL season has already provided many highlights and memorable moments, and we look forward to its conclusion including the widely anticipated play-offs which this year will feature the new Premiership play-off.

"We are also very busy planning for season 2014/15 and are pleased to announce the start dates across league and cup competitions.

"There are some very positive stories to be told across all our leagues at the moment and we only see the level of interest in Scottish football increasing further in the months ahead and as next season kicks off."

The SPFL Board has approved applications from the following clubs to play their official matches on their artificial pitches next season:

Airdrieonians FC, Alloa Athletic FC, Annan Athletic FC, Clyde FC, Falkirk FC, Forfar Athletic FC, Hamilton Academical FC, Montrose FC and Queen of the South FC.

The Board is also in discussion with Stenhousemuir regarding the renewal of the artificial pitch at Ochilview Park, at which both The Warriors and East Stirlingshire play their official matches.