Tennis courts to be renovated as part of £30m scheme

The council hope to improve local facilities and the accessibility of tennis

Eight public tennis courts in Chatham and Gillingham are set to be renovated.

The refurbishments are part of a £30m scheme by the UK government and the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) aiming to improve facilities and increase the accessibility of the sport.

Medway Council, in partnership with the LTA, said £174,158.34 will be invested in renovating courts at The Strand in Gillingham and Maidstone Road Sports Ground in Chatham.

Scott Lloyd, LTA Chief Executive, said: "We are delighted to be working with Medway Council to improve their park tennis facilities and provide more opportunities for anyone to pick up a racket and get active."

Building work is set to begin in January with the renovation due to be completed by the spring.

Councillor Nina Gurung, portfolio holder for heritage, culture and leisure, said: "Tennis is a great sport to play whether you're young or old, and offers a great way to socialise, have fun and keep fit at the same time."

As well as renovation work, Medway Council said it will work with Medway Sport and the LTA to deliver more community activities such as a local tennis league.

A new annual tennis pass will also be introduced.