Murray’s tennis centre plan gets the green light

Government go-ahead for £70m proposal despite public concerns

Judy Murray’s plan for a tennis and golf centre at Dunblane has been approved in principle by the Scottish Government.

It is hoped the £70 million development, which will feature 12 tennis courts and a golf academy, will help nurture the next generation of tennis stars.

The plans also include the creation of a hotel, sports pitch, a “Murray” museum, visitor centre and 19 houses on land between Dunblane and Bridge of Allan.

The decision was referred to Scottish ministers following an appeal in March last year.

The sports hub was backed by Ms Murray and Colin Montgomerie but proved controversial with the public, who feared the number of homes could grow.

Concerns about its size resulted in the scaling back the golf course from nine holes to a six hole “trainer” course and the retention of a green belt between it and the community.

Judy, the mother of world singles No 1 Andy and doubles champion Jamie, believes the centre will be a “bricks and mortar” legacy for the pair.

However earlier this year she said she was prepared to walk away from the project if it was not approved by the Scottish Government.

Yesterday, Kevin Stewart, the minister for local government and housing, announced that the development will go ahead.

He said: “I have concluded that the development is of significant regional and national significance. It will bring strong benefits to Scottish sport, helping in the development of elite competitors, while also providing facilities for the community.”

Judy Murray aims to build a world-class facility.