Services A-Z
Wallingford Town Council, on behalf of the Bull Croft Trust (BCT), have announced a partnership with the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) to refurbish the public tennis courts in Bull Croft Park. The refurbishments are part of a £30million nationwide investment by the UK Government and LTA Tennis Foundation, delivered by the LTA, to refurbish public tennis courts across Great Britain, and open up the sport to many more people.
This investment will see thousands of existing park tennis courts in poor or unplayable condition being transformed for the benefit of communities through renovation works, and improved court accessibility with new gate-access technology and booking systems making it easier for players to find, book and get on court.
In addition to an investment of £45,000 from the UK Government and LTA Tennis Foundation, Wallingford Town Council and a to-be-appointed operator will also work with the LTA to deliver a mix of free and low-cost tennis on the courts.
This includes the LTA’s Free Park Tennis, which are free, social tennis sessions, on weekend mornings at 10am delivered by local volunteers which are open to players of all ages, playing levels and experience. Equipment is provided at these sessions. The new courts will also host Local Tennis Leagues, giving people the opportunity to get involved in friendly and social local competitions.
At other times the courts can be booked for £6 per court per hour, which equates to £1.50 per person for a private doubles game. Residents who want to play tennis regularly can purchase an annual household pass for £45, which gives access to court bookings at no additional cost for the equivalent of less than £1 per week.
Funds raised will be reinvested towards ensuring the courts are maintained to a high standard for many years to come.
New booking systems and smart gate technology means it is now easier to get on court by booking in advance to guarantee availability.The courts will be available to book online via the LTA website, making it far easier to find and book a court or activity.
Work on sites is anticipated to start this spring and be completed within four weeks.
Cllr Steve Holder, Chair of Parks, Gardens, Allotments & Open Spaces Committee, is delighted this project is going ahead:
“This project forms part of a larger scheme to improve facilities in the Bull Croft Park which will see a new children’s play area, Pavilion, adult functional outside gym and steps and bridges to protect the 9th century Saxon fortifications which is currently going through the planning process. Archaeological digs will be taking place in the next few months and we hope to start the upgrade in 2025.”