Two new all-weather netball and tennis courts have opened to the public in St Albans' Verulamium Park.

The floodlit facility is located next to the Abbey View Athletics Track, and can be booked by individuals as well as community sports clubs.

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The new courts replace a similar facility, that had reached the end of its use.

The former facility is now the location of a children's play area.

Cllr Helen Campbell, chair of the council's public realm committee, said: "These are first-class outdoor courts that have been built to the highest standard.

“They are open to everyone, people of all ages and abilities, and I am pleased to say that we already have a high number of bookings, particularly from netball clubs as we are in the midst of their sport’s season.

"Last month, for example, more than 400 people used the courts.

“We are confident that the tennis bookings will build up as the warmer summer months get closer.

“Our budget has come under enormous pressure because of the difficult economic conditions that we are faced with.

“But the opening of these new courts show we are commited to enhancing our sports facilities for the benefit of the whole community.”

According to St Albans City and District Council, the courts had been planned three years ago.

Therefore, the plans had been "included in a previous budget before the council’s finances were impacted by last year’s deterioration in economic conditions".

The area is owned by St Albans City and District Council, but will be operated and maintained by Everyone Active on its behalf.

Steve Cox, area contract manager at Everyone Active, said: "We’re thrilled to be able to offer new and improved all-weather netball and tennis courts to our local community, particularly in time for spring.

“We’re proud to be able to deliver high quality facilities across the district, in partnership with St Albans City and District Council, and hope many more people will continue to play sports they are passionate about at our sites.”

The tennis and netball courts can be booked via the Everyone Active website (www.everyoneactive.com).