MORE than 30 tennis courts on Wirral have been 'improved and refurbished' in a major transformation project.

Following a successful funding bid to the Lawn Tennis Association by Wirral Council’s Active Wirral leisure service, £362,000 has been invested into 36 tennis courts across the borough, with some facilities being completely revamped.

Councillor Paul Stuart, leader of Wirral Council, said: "As part of these transformation works, dozens of Wirral Tennis courts have undergone upgrades to ensure that people can enjoy the facilities for years to come.

"All courts have received new gate systems and some have had resurfacing works or been repainted - along with the addition of new fencing and nets.

Newly-revamped tennis court in Marine Park, New BrightonNewly-revamped tennis court in Marine Park, New Brighton (Image: Wirral View) "This significant investment is in line with our plan to give more people access to high quality sports and recreation facilities within the borough.

"Providing our communities with state-of-the-art tennis courts is a vital part of encouraging local people to live active and healthy lives – and will hopefully help to produce some homegrown Grand Slam winners in the future."

The reopening of the courts has also coincided with the announcement of a new tennis operator, with We Do Tennis C.I.C having been appointed to take over the operation of the courts from Friday (August 2).

To celebrate the launch, We Do Tennis will be hosting a free ‘family fun day’ at Harrison Park this Saturday (August 10), with all abilities and ages welcome to attend by booking a free space.

Allison Kirk (LTA) and Andy Moss (We Do Tennis) at newly-revamped tennis court in New BrightonAllison Kirk (LTA) and Andy Moss (We Do Tennis) at newly-revamped tennis court in New Brighton (Image: Wirral View) Andy Moss, head of Parks at We Do Tennis, said: "We're absolutely thrilled to be taking over the running of Wirral’s tennis courts, especially after the refurbishments.

"We’re keen to encourage everybody to get involved and make use of them, so our family fun day is free and open to everyone who wants to test out the new facilities".

Residents who want to perfect their serve can find the improved courts at the following locations:

  • Coronation Park, Greasby (one court)
  • Harrison Park, Wallasey (seven courts)
  • Torr Park, Eastham, (two courts)
  • Arrowe Park, Woodchurch (one court)
  • Higher Bebington Park, Bebington (three courts)
  • Saughall Grange, Moreton (two courts)
  • Birkenhead Park (six courts)
  • Ashton Park, West Kirby (two courts)
  • Irby Park, Irby (two courts)
  • Marine Park, New Brighton (four courts)
  • Meols Parade Gardens, Meols (two courts)
  • New Ferry Park, New Ferry (four courts)

A Wirral Council statement read: "A mix of free and low-cost tennis will be available on the courts.

"This includes the LTA's Barclays Free Park Tennis sessions - free, social tennis sessions which will provide regular opportunities for anyone to pick up a racket and play.

"While small fees (£4 per hour and £35 for a household annual season ticket) will ensure that the courts are maintained at their new high standard for years to come.

"New booking systems and gate access technology means it is now easier to get on court by booking in advance to guarantee availability. All courts will be available to book via the Lawn Tennis Association LTA website."

The Family Fun Day will take place at Harrison Park on Saturday, August 10, from 11am – 1pm.

Equipment will be provided and We Do Tennis coaches will be on hand to help and answer questions about tennis in Wirral parks.

The event is free but spaces must be booked via the We Do Tennis website: https://wdtvenues.co.uk/wirral-parks