Keep Darwin Green Tennis Courts Free

The City Council will shortly take control of the tennis courts in the Darwin Green Central Park. These tennis courts are a fantastic asset for our community, and one that we should keep free access to. Earlier this year, the Labour-run Cambridge City Council introduced charges for some council-run tennis courts across the city. I was especially disappointed that our own Labour Councillors voted to introduce these costs on Cambridge residents.

There is a real risk that when the City Council takes control of the tennis courts here, that charges are introduced. This means families who currently enjoy free access to tennis courts could soon be forced to pay every time they want to play.

Why This Matters

Darwin Green is a new community still finding its feet. Our tennis courts are one of the few free recreational facilities available to residents. They're used by families, young people learning the game, and residents who want to stay active without paying gym fees.

Introducing charges will:
· Price out families on tight budgets who can't afford pay-per-play fees
· Reduce participation in sport particularly among young people
· Undermine community cohesion by making shared spaces less accessible
· Hit Darwin Green harder as a new community with fewer established free facilities