THE tennis courts at Barry's Romilly Park have now reopened following improvement works carried out by the Vale of Glamorgan Council, Tennis Wales and Sport Wales.

The courts now have modern surfaces, as well as a new gate access system.

The system, called ClubSpark, allows people to search, book and pay for courts online.

It is hoped that the new system will prevent vandalism on the courts.

Although there will be a charge to book a court, with no membership or priority system in place, the courts will operate on a non-profit basis, with money reinvested into maintenance and any surplus used to fund tennis activity in Romilly Park and the wider Vale of Glamorgan. There will be options to buy an annual family pass, or student pass for a one-off discounted fee.

The Vale Tennis Academy will offer coaching programmes for all ages and abilities at the courts in Romilly Park.

Similarly, Tennis Wales has signalled its intent to carry out community engagement activities to get more people involved in tennis.

Cllr Gwyn John, Vale of Glamorgan Council cabinet member for leisure, sport and wellbeing, said: "The council is committed to providing the best possible facilities for its residents to enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle.

"This objective is shared by both Tennis Wales and Sport Wales who have played an important part in the refurbishment of the courts at Romilly Park.

"It is hoped the work will help increase the number of people regularly playing tennis at this much-loved location."

Tennis Wales head of participation Jamie Clewer said: "We are committed to opening up tennis and making the sport accessible to all in Wales.

"The refurbishment of park tennis courts, such as these great facilities at Romilly Park, are key to meeting this aim.

"We look forward seeing these courts used by the local community for many years to come, raising the profile of tennis in the area and seeing more people play recreational and club tennis."