Eddie Russell
Melton tennis lovers could be in for an ace under a new tennis strategy.
a meeting on Monday, July 22, Melton council moved a motion consider the Melton Tennis Strategy in its next budget.
The report provides a guide for the future planning, development, governance and growth of the sport for the next ten years.
It includes funding of up to $34.6 million for the development of 18 new courts as well as the upgrading of existing ones.
Councillor Steve Abboushi said the strategy would help council to accommodate for the growth of the game.
“It’s a big deal for our residents because it’s a roadmap for the next decade for how we are going to grow and manage tennis across our city,” he said.
“With the population expected to boom by 2034, we are planning ahead to make sure there are enough tennis facilities for everyone.”
Tennis is currently the sixth most participated sport in Melton with more than 1000 registered participants at eight clubs in the municipality.
It is forecast that a further 620 players will join local tennis clubs by 2034 as well as thousands more recreational participants.
Cr Abboushi said council would prioritise investment and collaboration with relevant groups to meet the demand for the sport in both competitive and leisurely settings.
“We are aiming to build new courts, upgrade existing ones, and set up new clubs in key areas like the western and eastern corridors of Melton,” he said.
“We are working closely together with Tennis Victoria and local clubs to make sure we get this right.”
Councillor Julie Shannon said residents should be able to enjoy local sport and that council would look to remove barriers to participation.
“Playing sport should be accessible, inclusive, affordable and close to where you live. That’s what we are delivering with these strategies,” she said.
“Council has been working closely with sport clubs across our city as well as relevant sports associations to make sure we are addressing… the needs of future communities.”
