Arun park tennis courts reopen after renovation
- Three park tennis courts at Swansea Gardens officially reopened after renovations managed by the LTA and funded by UK Government and LTA Tennis Foundation.
- Part of biggest ever investment in parks tennis facilities across Britain, with millions going towards transforming over 2000 courts
- Event [attended by representatives from Arun District Council, Tivoli and the LTA] at Swansea Gardens officially opened the courts.
Park tennis courts in Arun have been officially reopened after a £60,000 renovation, managed by the LTA, and funded by the UK Government and LTA Tennis Foundation.
Tennis courts at Swansea Gardens hosted a ceremony on Saturday 23 September attended by representatives from Arun District Council, including Cllr Alison Cooper, Chair of the Council, Cllr Sue Wallsgrove, Chair of the Environment Committee, and Cllr Carol Birch, Chair of the Housing and Wellbeing Committee. They were joined by Matt Slorach from Tivoli and representatives from the LTA. 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.
Through the Parks Tennis Project, the LTA is delivering the biggest ever investment in parks tennis facilities across Britain, which has been used to transform these three courts at Swansea Gardens, providing a significant boost to sporting facilities.
The courts have undergone extensive work to ensure viability for years to come, including resurfacing, repainting and a new gate system. 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 free park tennis sessions, with equipment provided, the new courts will host Local Tennis Leagues, giving people the opportunity to get involved in friendly and social local competitions.
All courts will be available to book via the The Official Home of Tennis For Britain | LTA
New booking systems and gate access technology has also been installed as part of the project at Blakes Road, Norfolk Gardens and Maltravers Park. This means it is now easier to get on court by booking in advance to guarantee availability. The small booking fee will ensure that the courts are maintained at their new high standard for years to come. The LTA, Arun District Council and Tivoli will work together to ensure free park tennis sessions are available on the courts providing regular opportunities for anyone to pick up a racket and play.
Councillor Sue Wallsgrove, Chair of the Environment Committee at Arun District Council, said:
“We’re delighted to have worked with the LTA on this project – the results are fantastic.
Public tennis courts are such vital facilities for getting active, and thanks to this investment, the sport will be opened up to more players of all ages and abilities for years to come.
“We would encourage everyone to pick up a racket and come and have a go. It’s good fun, great for your health and getting out into the fresh air will give your wellbeing a real boost!”
Julie Porter, Chief Operating Officer at the LTA, said:
“After months of hard work, we’re delighted to see park tennis courts in Arun officially back open to the public, and in better shape than ever.
“Public tennis courts are such vital facilities for getting active and we want as many people as possible, of all ages and abilities, to pick up a racket and enjoy playing tennis. Thanks to this investment the sport will be opened up to more players, for years to come.”
Stuart Andrew MP, Sports Minister, said:
"We are committed to levelling up access to sport which is so important for the nation’s physical and mental health.
"The Government and the LTA are working together to deliver thousands of refurbished courts across Great Britain, supported by £30 million of investment including in Arun.
"These improved tennis facilities in Arun will provide the local community with fun opportunities to get active and potentially become the next Andy Murray or Emma Raducanu."