Park tennis courts reopen in Eastleigh Borough after renovation
Two new hubs made possible by £155,000 investment
Two new tennis hubs have been officially reopened following £155,000 of investment from the UK Government, LTA Tennis Foundation and the Eastleigh and Bursledon, Hamble & Hound Local Area Committees. Courts are operated on behalf of Eastleigh Borough Council by a partnership with the National Tennis Association (NTA).
Tennis courts at The Hub in Bishopstoke and at Bursledon Recreation Ground were recently reopened at an event attended by Councillors, along with representatives from the LTA and local tennis enthusiasts. There was an opportunity for people from the local community to pick up a racket and get on court for a range of tennis sessions.
The works were part of the Park Tennis Project, a £30 million joint investment by the LTA Tennis Foundation and UK Government, delivered by the LTA, to refurbish public tennis courts across Britain and support a new generation of players to get into the sport.
The courts have undergone extensive work to ensure viability for years to come. This nationwide programme of investment is seeing thousands of existing park tennis courts in poor or unplayable condition brought back to life for the benefit of communities across the country, providing vital opportunities for children and adults to get active.
As well as weekly Barclays Free Park Tennis sessions, with equipment provided, the refurbished courts will host Local Tennis Leagues, giving people the opportunity to get involved in friendly and social local competitions. The NTA will be setting up coaching activity for both sites in the near future.
All courts will be available to book via the LTA website. New booking systems and gate access technology means it is now easier to get on court by booking in advance to guarantee availability. The LTA, NTA and Eastleigh Borough Council will work together to ensure Barclays Free Park tennis sessions are available on the courts, providing regular opportunities for anyone to pick up a racket and play.
The Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Social Policy, Councillor Tonia Craig, who cut the ribbon to re-open the courts in Bursledon, said: “It was great to re-open these beautiful courts which will give tennis fans and aspiring players a year-round opportunity to play.
“It is a great fit with our ambition to promote fitness and wellbeing in the Borough through high quality facilities, and we’re very grateful for the support and investment of the LTA.”
Scott Lloyd, LTA Chief Executive, said: “We’re delighted to see park tennis courts across Eastleigh Borough officially re-open to the public, and in better shape than ever.
“Park tennis courts are vital for providing people with opportunities to pick up a racket, and we want as many people as possible, of all ages, abilities and backgrounds, to enjoy playing tennis and being active. Thanks to this investment the sport will be opened up to more players, for years to come.”