Plan to improve Runnymede’s tennis courts

Following final approval by councillors, Runnymede Borough Council has agreed to enter a partnership agreement with the renowned tennis organisation to enhance the provision of tennis courts and access to the sport in the Borough.

Once the partnership with the LTA is secured it will allow for improvements to be made to the playing surface, fencing, nets, and the installation of new access gates. Five sets of courts have been recommended for improvement funding which are Gogmore Farm Park, Ottershaw Memorial Fields, Victory Park, Chertsey Recreation Ground and Heathervale Recreation Ground.

Of all these sites, currently only Chertsey Rec has floodlights for evening or winter play. The condition of the surfaces and nets at the other courts has deteriorated over time.  

Cllr Chris Howorth, Chairman of our Community Services Committee, which first discussed the plans to work with the LTA said:

It is excellent news to hear of the substantial investment that this planned partnership with the Lawn Tennis Association could make to sport in our Borough.

 

We are about to release our health and wellbeing strategy, which encourages our residents to exercise, keep fit and live a healthy and active life. I hope that easy access to high quality tennis facilities will encourage local people to get outside and commit to getting fit.

Speaking after the Council’s Corporate Management Committee Meeting which gave the final go ahead to the partnership, Cllr Tom Gracey, Leader of the Council said:

We hope to improve the quality of our tennis offering in the Borough and encourage more people to get outside and have a go. We will be supporting those who may find it more difficult to cover the costs of the sport, and we will be securing the future of tennis courts in Runnymede for many years.

To keep the courts in good condition for the long term after the improvement works, users will be asked to pay £5 per game or they can buy a £36 annual pass. These fees are in line or cheaper than neighbouring boroughs also working with the LTA. Any households in receipt of Universal Credit or individuals registered disabled will be offered complimentary tennis access. The Council has also approved a budget to provide targeted introductory tennis coaching for identified groups of residents, and to provide tennis equipment to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the new facilities.

Residents will be able to easily book a court online via the ClubSpark website and will receive a special PIN to access the courts. An external tennis provider will be used to deliver a community coaching programme at each venue so residents can learn how to play.

The improvement of tennis facilities meets the priority of the Health and Wellbeing Strategy, by providing good quality, low-cost sports, and recreational facilities to residents of the Borough, whilst developing programmes and initiatives to make tennis affordable to those facing financial hardship and in support of different groups within our communities.

Work on the courts is scheduled to start in 2023.