Torbay on The Move, in partnership with the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) and Torbay Council, is thrilled to mark the one-year anniversary of the extensive tennis court renovations at Oldway Mansion. With over £500,000 invested in court upgrades, this initiative has revitalised 15 courts across Torbay, providing a significant boost to sporting facilities in the area.
The celebratory event took place at Oldway Mansion, where local dignitaries joined representatives from the LTA and Torbay Council. The occasion coincided with local schoolchildren participating in tennis activities, guided by local coaches and school games colleagues. Many players had the opportunity to pick up a racket and experience the newly refurbished courts for the first time.
Through the Parks Tennis Project, the LTA is delivering the biggest ever investment in parks tennis facilities across Britain, which has been used to bring back to use 15 courts across Torbay providing a significant boost to sporting facilities in the area. There have been over 3500 bookings to date and over 250 households taking up the opportunity to play all year round for just £35. Players use online booking and gate access technology for an easy way to book and guarantee the court to play on.
The courts have undergone extensive work to ensure viability for years to come, including fencing, resurfacing, repainting, new nets and 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.
Weekly free park tennis sessions are planned in the future, with equipment provided, and the new courts will host Local Tennis Leagues, giving people the opportunity to get involved in friendly and social local competitions.
The tennis courts are available to book via the LTA website and the new online booking system and gate access technology means it is now easier to get on court by booking in advance to guarantee the availability of each court. The courts have an affordably priced annual pass (£35 per household per annum with no further charges) or a one off of price of £6 per hour to book a court. Any income secured will be utilised to ensure that the courts are maintained at their new high standard for years to come.
Julie Porter, Chief Operating Officer at the LTA, said: “After lots of hard work, we’re delighted to see park tennis courts across Torbay officially marked as a year reopened 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.”
Cllr Jackie Thomas, Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture & Events and Corporate Services at Torbay Council, said: ”One year on since the refurbishment, it’s fantastic to see residents enjoying the tennis courts at Oldway Mansion. Whether you’re an experienced tennis player or a complete novice, the courts are available for everyone to use. Sports facilities like these help people to keep active and improve their mental and physical wellbeing. They are an important part of our community and I’m delighted that so many people are benefitting.”
The LTA, Torbay Council, and coaches from Torquay Tennis Club have also collaborated to provide coaching sessions, encouraging everyone to pick up a racket and play. Adult and Child programmes are found here: Torbay Parks Coaching / Torbay Parks Tennis Coaching (lta.org.uk)
https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/TorbayParksTennis
Torbay on The Move invites families, tennis enthusiasts, and the community to enjoy these upgraded facilities and embrace an active lifestyle.
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