Southwark Park tennis courts reopen after renovation

3 August 2023

Southwark Park’s tennis courts have reopened after a £316,912 renovation, funded as part of a nationwide programme of investment to rejuvenate park tennis courts across the country. The investment has also funded renovations at Belair Park, Brunswick Park, Burgess Park, Dulwich Park, Geraldine Mary Harmsworth Park and Honor Oak Recreation Ground.

The courts have undergone extensive work to bring them to a high standard and make them fit for purpose for years to come, including resurfacing, repainting, new nets and posts, and new gate access systems.

The courts will be managed by Southwark Council and have been funded by the UK Government, LTA Tennis Foundation, and the council.

The revamped facilities were inaugurated in a ceremony attended by Deputy Mayor Councillor Naima Ali, the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) and Surrey Tennis. Local residents were also invited to pick up a racket and get on the court for a range of tennis sessions delivered by National Tennis Association.

Aside from weekly free park tennis sessions with equipment provided, the new courts will host Local Tennis Leagues, offering locals a chance to participate in friendly competitions. The council also offers free youth membership for under 18s. This will enable them to book once a day for 30 minutes with no charge. Find out more information at www.southwark.gov.uk/tennis

Cllr Catherine Rose, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Leisure, and Parks, said: “We are pleased to have teamed up with the LTA to refresh the Southwark Park tennis courts.

“The upgraded courts enable our residents to play more tennis. In addition, they’re also an investment in our community's well-being, encouraging active living, helping to build friendships, and promoting better health.

“Whether you’re a tennis pro or a complete novice, the new tennis courts are open for everyone to enjoy this summer”.

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

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

Stuart Andrew MP, Sports Minister, said: "We are committed to levelling up access to sport which is so important for the nation’s physical and mental health.

 "The Government and the LTA are working together to deliver thousands of refurbished courts across Great Britain, supported by £30 million of investment including in Southwark.

"These improved tennis facilities in Southwark will provide the local community with fun opportunities to get active and potentially become the next Andy Murray or Emma Raducanu."

All courts will be available to book via the LTA website.  The new hire fees ensure the courts will be well maintained for years to come. The LTA, Southwark Council, and NTA will work together to ensure free park tennis sessions are available on the courts providing regular opportunities for anyone to pick up a racket and play.

Through the Parks Tennis Project, the LTA is delivering the largest investment in parks tennis facilities across Britain, which has been used to transform 25 courts across the local area, providing a significant boost to sporting facilities. 

Page last updated: 03 August 2023