![Councillor David McBride cut a red ribbon on Thursday [June 15] officially opening the new courts at Whitecrook Park <i>(Image: West Dunbartonshire Council)</i>](/resources/images/16892663.jpg?type=mds-article-962)
LOCAL tennis courts have reopened following a £60,000 transformation.
The courts at Whitecrook Park have been resurfaced and repainted and have had new equipment including nets and a gate system installed.
Primary five pupils from nearby Whitecrook Primary School were on hand to put the new courts to the test this morning.
Youngsters practised their serves and volleys in celebration of the opening.
They were joined by councillor David McBride – who cut the red ribbon – and representatives from the Lawn Tennis Association [LTA].
Cllr McBride, a board member of West Dunbartonshire Leisure Trust, said: “We’re really pleased with the investment and the new look to the court. The council is committed to increasing sports participation, particularly within tennis.
“This is our second set of courts which have seen a refurbishment within the last couple of years in West Dunbartonshire and we’re committed to encourage those within the community to get the best use of these courts with free booking and access to equipment.”
The courts were refurbished as part of an investment from the UK Government and the LTA Tennis Foundation.
Bankies will now be able to book a court for free via the LTA website as well as take part in a range of development events.
These include weekly organised park tennis sessions open to all ages, playing levels, and experiences.
The sessions will be run free of charge and with the help of Clydebank Sports Hub and West Dunbartonshire Leisure Trust.
It is hoped this will encourage increased sport participation in the area with the competition of the tennis courts being part of West Dunbartonshire Council's commitment to providing high-quality recreational facilities.
Julie Porter, chief operating officer at the LTA, said: “After months of hard work, we’re delighted to see park tennis courts across West Dunbartonshire 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, added: "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 £60,258 in West Dunbartonshire.
“These improved tennis facilities in Whitecrook Park will provide the local community with fun opportunities to get active and potentially become the next Andy Murray or Emma Raducanu."
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