Renfrewshire residents have been making the most of the area's recently renovated tennis courts, with new figures revealing just how popular the ‘ace’ new facilities are.
Robertson Park and Johnstone Park Road tennis courts officially reopened in July following a £343,000 renovation, managed by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) and funded by Renfrewshire Council, the UK Government and LTA Tennis Foundation.
The courts have undergone extensive work to ensure viability for years to come, including resurfacing, repainting, new fencing, new nets and gate system.
These renovations were part of the LTA’s Parks Tennis Project - the biggest ever transformation of park facilities across Britain, which has transformed 14 courts across the local area.
Events were held at the renovated courts to showcase the upgrades, with local young people participating in professional coaching sessions - including 30 pupils from St James' Primary School in Renfrew and 30 pupils from Cochrane Castle and St David’s Primary Schools.
Since re-opening to the public, more than 1,000 bookings have been made, with 1,247 hours of tennis played, according to the council - who say they will ensure free sessions remain available on the new courts.
Councillor Michelle Campbell, Convener of Renfrewshire council's Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board, said:
“It’s fantastic to see local people across our communities take advantage of these excellent facilities on their doorstep. It’s been especially heartening to see the young people participating in today’s event get excited by the sport and I’m sure it will inspire many of them to come back and use the courts again.
“I hope the investment in the courts encourages more people to take up the sport and the fact that free tennis will be available as part of the programme will surely support this. I’d encourage anyone interested in giving it a go to pick up a racket, book a court and get involved.”
Scott Lloyd, LTA Chief Executive, said: “We’re delighted to see park tennis courts across Renfrewshire officially re-open to the public, and in better shape than ever.
“Park tennis courts are vital for providing people with opportunities to pick up a racket, and we want as many people as possible, of all ages, abilities and backgrounds, to enjoy playing tennis and being active. Thanks to this investment the sport will be opened up to more players, for years to come.”
Blane Dodds, Tennis Scotland Chief Executive, said: “With tennis participation and membership in Scotland at record levels, it’s important that we continue to invest in facilities to grow capacity.
“Park facilities are key to ensuring tennis is accessible to all, so we are delighted that these park courts in Renfrewshire Council have opened following refurbishment.
“The appetite for tennis in Scotland has never been higher and these revamped courts, along with a number of other facilities being built and refurbished around the country, will help make sure more people are able to get access and play tennis across Scotland.”
Free court usage will be available on weekends from 10am-12pm and weekdays from 9am-4pm. Courts are chargeable from 4pm weekdays and 1pm weekends at £6.50 per hour.
Courts are available to book via the LTA website or by visiting www.oneren.org/sport/tennis.
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