A historic tennis club in Croydon may shut down if £25,000 isn’t raised to secure its land
Croydon: Members of a local tennis club are in a bit of a pickle. The Croydon Council has plans to sell the land where the Norbury Park Lawn Tennis Club has been for over a century. This news has left everyone feeling pretty anxious about the club’s future.
Founded way back in 1890, this club is one of the oldest around. It’s survived two world wars, with one of its courts even taking a bomb hit. Talk about resilience!
Over the years, it’s become a beloved spot for the community, offering affordable tennis and coaching to folks in an area that really needs it. So, when the council announced the land sale in November 2023, it hit hard. Members were shocked to learn their club’s home was on the chopping block as part of the council’s cost-cutting measures.
The council has been selling off various properties to tackle its financial issues, and this is just one of the many assets up for grabs. They’ve even given the club a chance to buy the land with a long lease, but raising the £25,000 needed is no small feat.
Lisa Patient, a director at the club, is leading the charge to save it. She and other members have set up a GoFundMe page to help raise the necessary funds. MyLondon is backing their efforts through a campaign to save community venues.
Lisa emphasized how crucial the club is to the area. Losing it would be a huge blow. It’s the only tennis club in North Croydon, providing a friendly space for everyone to enjoy the sport. Plus, it’s a hub for social events and community gatherings.
The club has four floodlit courts and plans to add two more, making it a great place for both seasoned players and newcomers. They’re also involved in programs that help young people get into tennis and build community ties.
Club Chairman Blaise Westmaas believes the club is more than just a place to play tennis; it’s a vital part of the community. The funds raised will help keep it alive and thriving.
In addition to the online fundraiser, the club is planning events like tournaments and cake sales to boost their campaign.
Local MP Steve Reed is also speaking out against the council’s plans, arguing that selling the land threatens a community asset that has been around for 135 years. He’s not happy about the council’s approach, especially with rising taxes.
A spokesperson for Croydon Council clarified that they’re not selling the site outright but are working on a long-term lease to give the club more security. They signed an agreement in October 2024 and are in talks to finalize the details.
Don’t miss out on the biggest Croydon stories. Sign up to our Croydon Central newsletter for all the latest weekly news and more.
