Group aces revamp of town courts after decline
WORK has successfully been completed on the redevelopment of Neath’s Dyfed Road tennis courts.
The site near The Gnoll rugby ground had been derelict for many years until a group of residents came together to lease the site from the local authority and develop a plan for the restoration of tennis in the town.
In less than two years, the Neath Tennis organisation has raised the necessary funds to resurface four tarmacadam tennis courts, erect new perimeter fencing and install an electronic gate system that gives users access to the playing areas.
The plan has been made possible with major grants from Sport Wales through their Place for Sport scheme and Tennis Wales.
Additional contributions were made by Morgan Sindall, who are currently constructing the new Cefn Saeson secondary school, councillor John Warman who donated money from Neath Port Talbot Council’s Members’ Community Fund and Hornbill Engineering.
The redevelopment work was undertaken by tennis court specialists Courtstall.
There has been a tennis club in Neath since 1886 but the courts at Dyfed Road fell into decline in the 1990s and were subsequently closed.
This redevelopment heralds a new chapter in the club’s history and Neath Tennis will work in partnership with Tennis Wales to resurrect a tennis club in the town whilst also offering tennis for all members of the community who wish to play using a pay and play system for as little as £5.
Local schools, colleges and organisations such as the Urdd are also planning on using the facility, and it promises to once again become an important sporting area.
Lloyd Williams, chair of Neath Tennis, said: “We knew there was a desire amongst the community to see the tennis courts restored to their former glory and we’re delighted to see the courts back in action again.
“Neath Tennis would like to thank the partners and funders who have helped realise this dream and we look forward to welcoming the community back to the courts for a game of tennis over the months and years to come!”
Luke Williams, of Tennis Wales, added: “It is fantastic to see the hard work of many stakeholders and volunteers come together and provide Neath with a tennis facility to be proud of.
“Neath Community Tennis Courts is the latest investment which will provide great facilities, low cost membership, payand-play and coaching to local people. hub in the