The tennis courts in Ecclesfield Park, Sheffield, have recently undergone a significant renovation and are now fully accessible to the public. The refurbishment included a complete overhaul of the courts, encompassing resurfacing, repainting, installation of new fencing and nets, as well as a new gate system.
Managed by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), the impressive project was made possible through funding from the UK Government, LTA Tennis Foundation, Sheffield City Council, and Courtside, as part of the largest-ever investment in park tennis facilities across Britain. With millions of pounds allocated to transforming over 2000 courts, the effort signifies a substantial move to enhance access to tennis for communities nationwide.
Similar renovation work was carried out at the Hollinsend Park Tennis Courts, which reopened at the end of last year. Collectively, the programme has injected over £100K of investment into sporting facilities in Sheffield.
The nationwide initiative aims to rejuvenate existing park tennis courts to benefit local communities and promote physical activity for people of all ages. The newly refurbished courts in Ecclesfield and Hollinsend Park will not only provide opportunities for free park tennis sessions with supplied equipment but will also host Local Tennis Leagues, allowing individuals to partake in friendly and social competitions.
Furthermore, the introduction of a new booking system and gate access technology will make it easier for tennis enthusiasts to secure a court for their use. A small fee of £6 grants an hour of play, with the proceeds contributing towards the maintenance of the courts at their new high standard.
The LTA, Sheffield City Council, and Courtside have committed to collaborate to ensure the availability of free park tennis sessions, opening up regular opportunities for anyone interested in playing the sport.
Following the completion of the renovations, a representative from the LTA expressed delight in seeing the park tennis courts in Ecclesfield reopen to the public, in better condition than ever. The aim is to encourage as many people as possible, of all ages and abilities, to engage in the sport of tennis, thanks to the investment that will sustain the courts for years to come.
Sheffield City Council has also launched a 10-year Sport and Leisure Strategy, with the goal of positioning the city at the forefront of physical activity, leisure, and wellbeing in the UK. This strategic plan underscores the Council’s ambition to provide modern, inclusive facilities and activities that cater to the needs of the entire community, aiming to promote active lifestyles.