WORK to transform the tennis courts at Moss Bank Park is under way ahead of a summer of sport.

Diggers have been on site since April resurfacing the four tennis courts in the Smithills park, as part of Bolton Council’s £2 million investment into recreation facilities across the town.

Now they have removed the old, cracked concrete surface ready for a new one to be laid down, as well as new nets, fencing and floodlights around the perimeter.

Smithills councillor Roger Hayes said he was excited to see the new courts, which are scheduled to be complete by mid-July.

He added: “The workmen seem to be doing a pretty good job. I look forward to seeing people play on the courts when they are finished.

“There are a few people who have used the courts in the past — usually a lot more people play on them during the Wimbledon weekend — but the condition has sadly affected the numbers over the years.”

The council is also investing more than £300,000 in refurbishing and resurfacing other tennis courts across the borough, including courts at Bradford Street Park, Kearsley, Harper Green and Westhoughton Central Park.

Cllr Nick Peel, Bolton Council’s executive cabinet member for environmental services, said the investment was a huge boost for tennis players across the borough.

He added: “We hope that these new tennis facilities will not only encourage young people to take part in a new sport, but also may help us develop and promote the tennis stars of the future.

“The other investment we will be making in draining other pitches, refurbishing tennis courts and creating cycle trails should mean that there is a sport or activity for everyone across the borough.”