New Investment Serves Up Refurbished Tennis Courts Across Midlothian
Midlothian Council and the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) have teamed up to refurbish and improve public park tennis courts in Midlothian, giving local communities more opportunities to get active and enjoy the game.
Good timing
Just in time for Wimbledon, three park venues have been upgraded: Abbeylands Welfare Park Tennis Courts in Newtongrange, Beeslack Tennis Courts, Penicuik and King’s Park Tennis Courts in Dalkeith.
Part of UK-wide investment
These improvements are part of a £30 million UK-wide project funded by the UK Government and the LTA Tennis Foundation to transform public tennis courts and make the sport more accessible to everyone. So far, more than 2,000 courts across Great Britain have been improved through this programme.
Council contributed
The investment of £136,444 from the Lawn Tennis Association and £40,000 from Midlothian Council will bring courts back into great condition, with modern booking systems and better access through new gate technology.
Free sessions
The council and the LTA plan to deliver free weekly tennis sessions at these park sites for all ages and abilities, with equipment provided so everyone can join in. Local Tennis Leagues will also offer a friendly, social way to get active through community competitions.
How to book
Bookings are made through Clubspark and the cost is £5 per court, per hour:
Grab your racket
Councillor Kelly Parry, Leader of Midlothian Council, said: “Park tennis courts are so important for helping people of all ages get active and stay healthy, supporting both their physical and mental wellbeing. Having good, accessible courts in our parks means more people, including women and girls and those from all backgrounds, can enjoy the benefits of playing tennis. I’m looking forward to grabbing my racket and enjoying a game myself.”
Opening the sport to more players
Scott Lloyd, LTA Chief Executive, said: “We’re delighted to see park tennis courts across Midlothian Council officially 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. Thanks to this investment the sport will be opened up to more players, for years to come.”