An open day is to take place at the newly renovated tennis courts at Ayscoughfee Gardens this weekend.
The event will take place on Saturday 23 September from 2pm until 4pm, and will feature special guest Abbie Breakwell, a leading GB Wheelchair tennis player, free coaching sessions and opportunity to play on the new courts, and much more.
The courts recently underwent extensive work to improve the quality, security and durability of the facilities for years to come, including full resurfacing and repainting, replacement fencing, new nets and posts and a new gate system, linked to online court booking provided by the LTA.
A total of £120,000 was invested in the refurbishment, with £100,000 coming from the UK Government and LTA Tennis Foundation, supported by a £20,000 investment by South Holland District Council.
The new access technology and online booking system was installed to help with the security and fair use of the courts, allowing people to secure their place in advance and minimise access for non-playing activity or anti-social behaviour.
The courts will be available to book via the LTA website from Thursday 21 September and will temporarily be free of charge to allow people to get used to the booking system and try out the new courts. A small fee upon booking will be introduced following the free period, with any income ring-fenced to ensure that the courts are maintained at their new high standard for years to come.
The LTA and South Holland District Council will also work together to set up new free park tennis sessions going forwards, providing regular opportunities for anyone to pick up a racket and play. The new courts will also host Local Tennis Leagues, giving people the opportunity to get involved in friendly and social local competitions.
Councillor Tracey Carter, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Communities and Operational Housing, said: “I am delighted we have had this opportunity to improve the courts, and to see them now in such good condition and ready for use is fantastic.
“Ayscoughfee is a beautiful setting with its stunning Gardens, fascinating history and great local café. We hope we have been able to create the perfect conditions for families and friends to get outdoors, get active and have fun together.”
Councillor Henry Bingham, Portfolio Holder for Assets and Strategic Planning, said: “It’s great that we have been able to secure further funding and had the opportunity to work with the LTA to complete this fantastic project and improve a well-loved facility in Spalding enjoyed by people from all areas of South Holland.
“We are investing in our assets across the District and working to improve them where possible to a level people expect and deserve.”
Julie Porter, Chief Operating Officer at the LTA, said: “After months of hard work, we’re delighted to see park tennis courts at Ayscoughfee Gardens 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. Thanks to this investment the sport will be opened up to more players, for years to come.”
Stuart Andrew MP, Sports Minister, said: “We are committed to levelling up access to sport which is so important for the nation’s physical and mental health.
“The Government and the LTA are working together to deliver thousands of refurbished courts across Great Britain, supported by £30 million of investment.
“These improved tennis facilities in Spalding will provide the local community with fun opportunities to get active and potentially become the next Andy Murray or Emma Raducanu.”
For more information, please visit https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/ayscoughfee-gardens, and to book your place for some tennis sessions at the event, please visit https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/ayscoughfee-gardens/Events.
