Member of Parliament Antony Higginbotham has welcomed a significant investment in local tennis courts across Burnley and Padiham. The refurbishment project, made possible through collaboration between Burnley Council, the UK Government, and the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), aims to enhance community sports facilities and promote active lifestyles.
With a total investment of £58,860, the initiative goes beyond court refurbishment. An inclusive program of coaching activities will take place across the park sites, including weekly free tennis sessions catering to all ages, skill levels, and experience. The sessions will provide equipment, eliminating the need for participants to have a playing partner or their own racket. Moreover, local tennis leagues will offer friendly and sociable opportunities for individuals to engage in friendly competition and stay active.
To ensure the sustainability of the tennis courts, a gate access and pin code system will be implemented. Court bookings can be conveniently made online, with a charge of £3 per hour. Free sessions will also be available regularly, allowing everyone in the community to enjoy the courts. For those who wish to maximize their tennis experience, a season ticket priced at £35 will cover up to five people.
The refurbishment project covers a total of 11 courts in prominent locations throughout the borough, including Scott Park, Memorial Park (Park Road), Ightenhill Park, and Queen's Park with upgrades to these courts having now taken place.
"I am delighted to see this substantial investment in our local tennis facilities," said Antony.
"The refurbishment of these courts, combined with the exciting coaching programs and accessible booking system, will encourage more people to participate in the sport and enjoy the numerous benefits it offers. This project is a testament to our commitment to promoting active lifestyles, community engagement, and the overall well-being of people in Burnley and Padiham”.
The official launch of the scheme will take place at Scott Park on Sunday 18th June, where Burnley Tennis Club will provide fun taster sessions for interested participants.
This local initiative is part of a nationwide investment led by the UK Government and the LTA Tennis Foundation, executed by the LTA. The aim is to revitalise public tennis courts across Britain and make the sport more accessible to a wider audience.
Through renovation works, improved accessibility with gate-access technology, and streamlined booking systems, thousands of park tennis courts in poor or unplayable condition will be transformed, benefitting communities nationwide.
As the project progresses, Antony is encouraging individuals of all ages and experience levels to join the Burnley parks local tennis league before 12th June, ahead of the new season.
