“Unplayable” tennis courts at two parks have received a £150,000 makeover.

The seven courts in Milton Recreation Ground and King George V Playing Fields in Sittingbourne are now open following the refurbishments which took six months to complete.

The improvements started in July last year and the courts reopened on Wednesday, January 31.

Resurfacing and the installation of new fencing and nets have all been completed thanks to a partnership between Swale council and the Lawn Tennis Association’s (LTA) Park Tennis Project.

Also included in the upgrades is gate access technology which the council say will make it easier for players to find, book and get on court.

Temporary lines have been painted while the council waits for better weather to allow for a full repainting of the courts which is scheduled for the spring.

Free weekly tennis sessions are set to be offered. These will be organised by volunteers and will take place every Saturday and Sunday from 10am, with equipment provided.

Local Tennis Leagues will also be set up to give people the opportunity to get involved in friendly and social local competitions.

Frequent players can purchase season tickets allowing daily access to the courts for £40 per year.

Casual users can book a court for £6 per hour. Funds raised will ensure that the courts are maintained at their new high standard for years to come.

Some £124,578.54 came from the government and LTA Tennis Foundation as part of a £30 million UK-wide scheme.

An additional £32,413 was invested by the council.

Cllr Richard Palmer, the chair of Swale council’s community committee, said it is “amazing to see the unplayable local facilities transformed into something we can all be proud of”.

He added: “We are excited to announce that these newly refurbished courts have reopened after being given a much-needed new lease on life.

“An active community is a healthier and happier one, and the more opportunities we can provide, for people of all ages, the better.

“That is why it is important that we offer the free sessions on the weekend, so everyone can have access to these wonderful courts, get active and socialise without the need for any equipment.

“While the new fees will allow the courts to be maintained to this new high standard making sure they are available to the community for years to come.

“We can’t wait to see the courts full and busy once again.”

The chief operating officer at the LTA, Julie Porter, says the revamped courts will help open up the sport to more players

She said: “After months of hard work, we’re delighted to see park tennis courts across Swale officially back open to the public, and in better shape than ever.

“Public tennis courts are such vital facilities for getting active and we want as many people as possible, of all ages and abilities, to pick up a racket and enjoy playing tennis.

“Thanks to this investment the sport will be opened up to more players, for years to come.”