Major drainage works have begun at Quarry Road in Old Town after the refurbished tennis courts have been left closed for months.

The neglected public tennis courts in Swindon were given a £140,000 investment in July 2023, but never reopened after that due to 'drainage issues'.

“Unfortunately, the drainage issues on Quarry Road have been worse than we had anticipated, leading to the flooding of the courts each time there was heavy rainfall," said a spokesperson for South Swindon Parish Council in November 2023.

“That has led us to take the decision not to open the courts until these issues are rectified."

Swindon Advertiser: The 'refurbished' tennis courts appeared sodden and muddy when this photo was taken in November 2023.The 'refurbished' tennis courts appeared sodden and muddy when this photo was taken in November 2023. (Image: Newsquest)

Swindon Advertiser: Drainage works have now begun to get the courts up and running, eight months after the initial refurbishment.Drainage works have now begun to get the courts up and running, eight months after the initial refurbishment. (Image: South Swindon Parish Council)

The tennis courts are situated in one of the lowest points in Old Town and suffer from water run-off from the Town Gardens, which left the freshly painted courts looking worse for wear.

But eight months on from the initial refurbishment, major drainage works have now been launched to get the courts up and running again in time for the summer.

“We are pleased to share that after a lengthy process of assessing the drainage problems and finding an appropriate contractor, work has commenced to properly address the standing water and other drainage challenges faced at the site," said Neil Hopkins, Chair of South Swindon Parish Council.

"We know this has been frustrating for residents eager to use the courts, and we appreciate everyone's patience as we complete the work. It’s been frustrating for everyone concerned and I’m delighted that work can now take place.”