FAQs - Tennis Courts Upgrade
What is Council proposing?
Council is supporting Tennis SA who have an agreement with Council for use of the facility, to undertake an upgrade of the existing courts.
What is Tennis SA proposing?
Tennis SA is proposing to resurface all 12 existing courts. This includes the 4 courts which are required to be publicly accessible under the agreement between Council and Tennis SA for the use of the site.
Tennis SA is also proposing to upgrade the existing lighting to energy-efficient LED lights, which is better for the environment, as well as refurbishing the clubrooms within its existing footprint.
Why is Tennis SA proposing the upgrade?
Tennis SA has advised Council that the existing distances at the end of the courts do not meet the required safe stopping distances and clearances for players and as such, they have safety concerns for their players and members.
As part of the resurfacing of the courts, the footprint is proposed to be extended by a distance of 9.0 metres to the south into the hockey pitch. This will also allow Tennis SA to provide viewing areas between the bank of courts.
How is the proposed upgrade going to be funded?
Tennis SA has advised Council that the upgrade is expected to cost approximately $1.2 million. This is based on their previous experience in managing and delivering projects of a similar scope.
Tennis SA has requested Council funding in the amount of $400,000 towards the project. Council has agreed to this given that there are 4 publicly accessible courts that will be resurfaced. Council has allocated its contribution in its 2025-26 Annual Business Plan and Budget. However, Council has advised Tennis SA that it will only provide this funding (as a maximum) in the event that Tennis SA is able to secure the remaining funds required for the upgrade.
Has Council formally endorsed Tennis SA’s proposal?
Yes, Council has formally endorsed Tennis SA’s proposal, in principle. Tennis SA is however required to seek and obtain approval from Council via a development assessment process. This will ensure all details of the proposed upgrade will be considered appropriately. Tennis SA is also required to secure the total funding required for the project.
When is Tennis SA proposing to undertake the upgrade?
It is difficult to know as Tennis SA is required to undergo a development application process as well as secure the required funding. However, Council has been advised that the works are likely to take place in 2026.
Is Council’s committed to Tennis SA’s proposal?
Yes. Council is committed to Tennis SA’s proposal subject to development approval being granted and confirmation of project funding by Tennis SA.
There is a very large tree located on the south-western corner of what would be the new footprint of the new tennis courts. How will Council protect this tree from the upgrade works?
As part of the development application assessment process, Council will require an arborist report from Tennis SA as the applicant. The report will need to demonstrate that there are no negative impacts on the tree. Council will seek its own advice regarding the matter and is able to set conditions regarding any development approvals granted to ensure the protection of the tree.