Council courting approval with new facilities

Members of the public are being asked to make the most of the upgraded facility that has been served up and start using the new tennis courts and dual function tennis/pickleball court.

Pickleball is a racquet sport played on a court very similar to badminton and uses elements of racquet skills from tennis, squash, badminton and table tennis.

It was invented in 1965 as a children's backyard game on Bainbridge Island, Washington, USA and named after the invetor’s dog.

Councillor Heather Anderson, Neighbourhood Services convener, said: “It’s great to see these new facilities being made available to the public.

"The project has delivered a better, safer environment in order to play tennis and Pickleball.

“We know the many benefits from being active and leading a healthy lifestyle. Having these impressive facilities at our disposal helps to make that process easier.

“Tennis is a sport that can be played and enjoyed by an extensive range of people and the courts can be used by any members of the public who wish to. We can’t all be Andy, but we can try!”

Plans to revamp the premises were approved at the city’s Neighbourhood Services Committee in May.

The works carried out have seen a replacement surface, lining, nets, and a replacement perimeter fence at the location.

Catriona Blake, president of the In A Pickle Club, said: "Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the world and is played at indoor venues across Dundee, Angus, Perth and Fife.

“Local players are very excited about having access to an outdoor court, thanks to the fantastic support from Dundee City Council.”

Blane Dodds, Tennis Scotland chief executive, said: “This will make a significant impact in making tennis more accessible.

“I am grateful to Dundee City Council for their investment in the upgrading of a popular facility and we are working closely with Dundee City Council on plans to develop more opportunities across the city, including potential investment via the Parks Investment Fund.”