The Mayor of Lambeth, Cllr Sarbaz Barznji, joined Myatts Field Park Friends Group, Surrey Tennis and LTA representatives for the re-opening on Saturday (Sept23) where local people had the opportunity to pick up a racket and get on court for a range of tennis sessions with local coach Austine Okojie.
Cllr Donatus Anyanwu, Lambeth’s Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, Leisure and Sports, said: “I’m really pleased to see these tennis courts re-open and already being put to good use thanks to everybody involved. This is part of a wider investment and we thank the LTA for their commitment to the sport in Lambeth.”
The courts at Myatts Field Park have been resurfaced, repainted, had new nets, new posts and new gate systems that will help keep them in top condition for the community for years to come.
Through the Parks Tennis Project, the LTA is delivering the biggest ever investment in parks tennis facilities across Britain, which has been used to transform nine courts across Lambeth. So far, nationally, more than 1,500 parks have been completed through the project which is funded by the UK Government and the LTA Tennis Foundation.
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 local competitions.
All courts will be available to book via the LTA website. New booking systems and gate access technology means it is now easier to get on court by booking in advance to guarantee availability. A small feeof £7.50 per hour will ensure that the courts are maintained at their new high standard for years to come. The LTA and Lambeth Council will work together to ensure free park tennis sessions are available on the courts providing regular opportunities for anyone to pick up a racket and play.
Julie Porter, Chief Operating Officer at the LTA, said: “After months of hard work, we’re delighted to see park tennis courts across Lambeth 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.”
