The government’s minister for sport says Brighton has the potential to produce the next number one tennis player.
All tennis courts in Preston Park reopened last weekend after major refurbishment, including resurfacing, repainting, new fencing, nets and secure gate systems.
The facility made use of a £245,000 grant set aside to refurbish all courts in the city which tennis fans, including Minister for Sport Stuart Andrew, hope could lead to “the next Andy Murray or Emma Raducanu” coming from the city.
“"We are committed to levelling up access to sport which is so important for the nation’s physical and mental health,” said the minister.
"The government and the LTA Tennis Foundation are working together to deliver thousands of refurbished courts across Great Britain, supported by £30 million of investment, including in Brighton and Hove.
"These improved tennis facilities in Brighton and Hove provide the local community with fun opportunities to get active and potentially become the next Andy Murray or Emma Raducanu."
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 competitions.
Julie Porter, chief operating officer at the LTA, said: “After months of hard work, we’re delighted to see park tennis courts across Brighton and Hove 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.
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“Thanks to this investment the sport will be opened up to more players for years to come.”
All courts will be available to book via the LTA website at a “small fee” to ensure “their new high standard is available for many years”.
During the opening last weekend, Kerry Picket, city councillor for Preston Park and chairwoman of Friends of Preston Park, thanked former Green councillors Siriol Hugh-Jones and Leo Littman for their help with project.
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