RECENT changes to the coronavirus lockdown mean that public tennis courts across the borough of Bury are now open for restricted tennis activity with bookings being taken online.

Play areas, outdoor gyms and multi-play ball zones at Bury’s parks are still closed until further notice.

The Government has said that people can now play tennis as long as they follow social distancing guidelines. This means:

  • All players must stay a minimum of 2 metres apart at all times.
  • Players from different households can play singles with a maximum of 2 people on court.
  • Players all from the same household can play singles or doubles with a maximum of 4 people on court.
  • Coached sessions should be limited to one-to-one coaching activity only and coaches should position themselves on the other side of the net while maintaining social distancing from the player.

Tennis courts can be booked at the following parks:

  • Bolton Road Park, Radcliffe
  • Clarence Park, Bury
  • Close Park, Radcliffe
  • Hamilton Road Park, Whitefield
  • Manchester Road Park, Bury
  • Nuttall Park, Ramsbottom
  • Openshaw Park, Bury
  • St Mary’s Park, Prestwich
  • Town Meadow Park, Tottington
  • Whitehead Park, Bury

Before visiting a Bury park to play tennis, players should book a court in advance online at clubspark.lta.org.uk/bury.

Councillor Alan Quinn, Cabinet Member for the Environment said: “We know keeping active is essential for maintaining good physical and mental wellbeing and that local parks have a vital part to play in this.

“With most people now able to exercise as often as they want to and tennis being a sport that can be played safely, we’re really pleased to be re-opening all our tennis courts in local parks.

“But it is really important that all players stay alert, abide by the rules and use them responsibly to help protect and keep everyone safe during coronavirus.”

The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) has produced easy to follow ‘Play Safe’ guidelines for all players in England which take account of the Government’s guidance on public spaces, outdoor activity and exercise.

The LTA guidelines should be read by all tennis players before undertaking tennis activity at Bury’s parks. See www.lta.org.uk/ for full details.