Thank you to everyone who participated in our community engagement program on the proposed lease to Tennis Australia to redevelop and manage the current Dendy Park Tennis Centre.

Between 21 September – 18 October 2022, we heard from 68 community members via survey and email about their views on this proposed lease.

Strong support and a few concerns:

Most respondents (85%) were supportive of the proposed lease (67% strongly and 18% somewhat supportive).

Common reasons for support included that the current centre needs a significant upgrade and the plan benefits residents and encourages greater participation in racket sports, while requiring no investment from Council. Trust in Tennis Australia to deliver the upgrade and manage the centre was also prevalent in responses.

Among those who were somewhat supportive, concerns included the potential impact to current users and/or increased membership fees, and a desire for greater public access.

A small number of respondents (10%) were strongly opposed. Their concerns ranged from increased traffic/parking congestion, lack of detail in the proposal and amount of rent, perception public land is being handed over to a private club, and preference for hard court surfaces over clay.

What we’re doing:

Council officers are recommending that the lease proceed on the basis that:

• the findings of the community engagement were overwhelmingly positive
• the issues that were raised, such as impact on current users, public access and changes to fees will be effectively managed through the agreed terms of the lease.

Next steps

Council will consider a report on community feedback and a Heads of Agreement Lease for Dendy Park Tennis Centre to Tennis Australia at its November meeting.

• Read the agenda
• Ask a question
• Request to be heard at the meeting
• Watch the meeting