Grant announcement a hit for tennis

Tennis enthusiasts will benefit from the redevelopment of Tamworth Tennis Centre following the news today Tamworth Regional Council has secured a $1.4 million grant under the Australian Government's Building Better Regions Fund.

The grant was among $6 million in funding announced today for communities in the New England region by Federal Member for New England Barnaby Joyce at Treloar Park in East Tamworth.

Tamworth Region Mayor Col Murray said as Trust manager for the park, Council was excited about what the grant means for the future of tennis for local players.

"This funding will complement contributions from Council, Tennis NSW and West Tamworth League Club to redevelop and improved the community and competition tennis facilities here," he said.

"The enhancement of Tamworth Tennis Centre will provide us with a regionally significant tennis centre which will enable Tamworth to host major tennis tournaments."

The project will include the upgrading courts to championship standard acrylic hard courts with associated fencing and and event lighting, upgrading of courts to championship standard synthetic grass courts, installation of spectator viewing areas and sun-safe shelters, upgrading the tennis pavilion and amenities, landscaping,paved walkways and community play space.

Mr Joyce said investment in the project through round 3 of the Building Better Regions Fund will also help grow the local economy.

"When complete the Tamworth Tennis Centre will be revitalised and will attract increased visitation and economic benefit," he said.

Tennis coach Jarrod Campbell, who is based at the centre, said there is a current shortage of competition standard hard courts in the North West.

"This funding will lead to this centre again being able to host major regional competitions," he said.