New tennis courts served up in East Kilbride

Published: Wednesday 15 May 2024

This image shows Council Leader Joe Fagan and Councillor Robert Brown at the refurbished Whitemoss tennis courts

Whitemoss Tennis Courts have officially reopened following a £93,000 renovation.

The renovation was managed by the Lawn Tennis Association and funded by the council, UK Government and LTA Tennis Foundation.

The courts hosted a ceremony today attended by Council Leader Joe Fagan, chair of the council’s Community and Enterprise Resource Committee Councillor Robert Brown and representatives from the LTA.

Local pupils from S1 at St Andrew’s and St Bride’s High School also got the chance to try out the courts, and also invited were local resident Alan Kay and his daughter Matilda, who highlighted the need for investment in the courts.

The courts have undergone extensive work to ensure viability for years to come, including resurfacing, repainting, new nets and a new gate entry system.

Council Leader Joe Fagan said: “The new tennis courts are looking fantastic, and I’m delighted that everyone in East Kilbride and beyond can now enjoy playing on them. I would like to thank all our partners for their hard work in getting the new courts ready as the tennis season gets into full swing.”

Councillor Brown added: “Tennis is very much a growing and vibrant sport these days. Park tennis courts are vital in providing opportunities for children and adults to get active, delivering significant physical and mental health and wellbeing benefits to participants. It’s great news that the courts are now open.”

Julie Porter, Chief Operating Officer at the LTA, said: “After months of hard work, we’re delighted to see park tennis courts in South Lanarkshire Council officially back open to the public, and in better shape than ever.”

Stuart Andrew MP, Sports Minister, said:  "These improved tennis facilities in South Lanarkshire will provide the local community with fun opportunities to get active and potentially become the next Andy Murray or Emma Raducanu."

Blane Dodds, Tennis Scotland Chief Executive, said: “With tennis participation and membership in Scotland at record levels, it’s important that we continue to invest in facilities to grow capacity. “

As well as weekly Barclays Free Park Tennis sessions, with equipment provided, the refurbished courts will host Barclays Local Tennis Leagues, giving people the opportunity to get involved in friendly and social local competitions.

All courts will be available to book via the LTA website. The cost of booking courts will be available on a ‘pay to play’ basis for £8.75 per court per hour or the option of an annual. There will also be some free of charge sessions, allowing people to benefit from more affordable tennis.