Plans to convert the tennis courts in London’s Olympic Park into padel courts have been paused following significant public backlash. The £500,000 initiative proposed by the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority was scheduled to start next month but has been delayed until the board meeting on July 31, where opponents and the Lawn Tennis Association will be allowed to present their views. The loss of indoor courts is expected to impede the growth of tennis in the area, although there are hopes that players might transition to outdoor courts or padel.
Scott Lloyd, the LTA's chief executive, has described the plans as a betrayal of the London 2012 legacy and the athletes who competed at the Games.
James Labous, who organised the online petition, said he was delighted with the public response but there was still a lot of work to do to save the tennis courts.
The authority admits the loss of the indoor courts will inhibit further growth of tennis but hopes tennis players will switch to the outdoor courts or to padel.
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