Liberal Democrats on Harlow Council have warmly welcomed the agreement reached between the council and Harlow Lawn Tennis Club to expand and improve tennis facilities at Latton Bush.

The agreement, approved by the council's Policy & Resources Committee on Thursday 21 July, will see the Club convert two surplus bowls greens into new outdoor courts, and provide facilities for indoor tennis. It will result in a rent income to Harlow Council to support local services, and preserve the informal green space between Latton Bush and The Briars. The scheme will also include free local tennis coaching to schools and the community.

Liberal Democrat group leader Cllr Chris Millington said:

"This really is a win-win situation for local residents. This is a much better proposal than the one on the table last year, and shows how right the Liberal Democrats were to stand firm in opposing the Tories who backed the original flawed plans".

Liberal Democrat Policy & Resources spokesman Cllr Jim Pailing said:

"This new plan provides improved tennis facilities without giving up precious green space or income to the council. The rejected Conservative plans would have seen green space concreted over, and lost nearly 100 years of rent income to help keep local services going. Liberal Democrats were right to stand out for a better deal".

Local ward councillor Lorna Spenceley said:

"This improved proposal protects local green space which the Tories wanted to build on, and provides an income to the council too. I'm pleased that the Liberal Democrats led the way in seeking something better, and that local people will be able to benefit from these improved plans".

Now that the Club and the Council have reached agreement, it is hoped that the scheme will attract financial support of nearly £1 million from the Lawn Tennis Association.