Ecclesfield Park tennis courts reopen after refurbishment

Ecclesfield Park tennis courts in Sheffield have officially reopened following renovations.

The courts have undergone extensive works to ensure viability for years to come, including resurfacing and repainting, installation of new fencing and netting and a new gate system.

The renovations were managed by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) and funded by the UK Government, the LTA Tennis Foundation, Sheffield City Council and Courtside as part of the largest ever investment in UK park tennis facilities, millions being allocated for the transformation of more than 2000. courts.

Through the Parks Tennis Project, the LTA has already supported the renovation of the Hollinsend Park tennis courts, which reopened late last year.

In total, the nationwide program has delivered over £100,000 of investment in Sheffield’s sports facilities.

Councilor Kurtis Crossland, Chair of Sheffield City Council’s Communities, Parks and Leisure Committee, said:

“Sheffield has a proud heritage as an outdoor and sporting city and our sports and leisure infrastructure – whether it’s sports facilities, community centres, parks and green spaces or walking and cycling routes the bicycle – plays a key role in this.

“The refurbishment of the tennis courts at both Hollinsend and Ecclesfield Park provides a major boost to our sporting facilities and I am delighted that they are now re-opened and ready for use by the local community.”

This nationwide investment program is bringing thousands of existing park tennis courts back to life for the benefit of local communities, providing vital opportunities for both children and adults to be more active.

As well as free weekly tennis sessions in the park, with equipment provided, the new courts will host Local Tennis Leagues, giving people the opportunity to get involved in friendly and social local competition.

All courts will be bookable online. New booking systems and gate access technology mean it is now easier to get into court by booking in advance to guarantee availability.

A pitch booking is £6 for an hour’s play – these small fees will ensure the pitches are maintained to their new high standard for years to come.

The LTA, Sheffield City Council and Courtside will work together to ensure free tennis in the park sessions are available on the courts, providing regular opportunities for anyone to pick up a racket and play.

Julie Porter, Chief Operating Officer at LTA, said:

“After months of hard work, we are delighted to see the tennis courts at Ecclesfield Park back open to the public and in better shape than ever.

“Public tennis courts are vital facilities for getting active and we want as many people of all ages and abilities to pick up a racket and enjoy tennis. Thanks to this investment, the sport will be open to more players for years to come.”

Sheffield City Council recently launched its 10-year Sport and Leisure Strategy, which aims to put Sheffield at the forefront of sport, physical activity, leisure and well-being in the UK. The strategy sets out the Council’s ambition to have facilities, activities and services that are modern, welcoming, inclusive and meet the needs of everyone in Sheffield – encouraging more people to be more active, more often.