A Welsh Government-backed initiative is transforming outdated tennis courts into modern basketball and netball spaces across South West Wales, with new facilities already open in Maesteg, Port Talbot, Cwmafan and Haverfordwest.
The upgrades are part of Sport Wales’s Court Collaboration Fund, which has invested over £1.4 million since 2022 to improve sports infrastructure in 12 local authorities. The fund supports the Welsh Government’s wider £41 million commitment to community and elite sports facilities, including £10.1 million earmarked for 2025–26.
Local impact: Bridgend, Neath Port Talbot and Pembrokeshire
Two newly refurbished courts opened this week at Maesteg Welfare Park in Bridgend County, converting former tennis courts into vibrant basketball and netball zones with multi-coloured surfacing, line markings and new court furniture.
In Neath Port Talbot, recent investments have upgraded courts at Port Talbot Memorial Park (£73,745), Parc y Llyn in Cwmafan (£77,384), and Ystalyfera (£121,182), creating inclusive spaces for team sports and youth engagement.
Pembrokeshire has also benefited, with £12,501 allocated to Ysgol Caer Elen in Haverfordwest to support court transformation and expand local access to basketball and netball.
Jack Sargeant, Minister for Sport, said: “The Court Collaboration Fund exemplifies how working together strategically to invest in the right facilities in the right places can maximise the impact for local communities. They’re more than courts — they’re catalysts for community cohesion, youth development and improved wellbeing.”
He added: “With the £10 million allocated for sports infrastructure, we’re building the foundation for a healthier, more active Wales where geography and background are no barrier to sporting participation.”
Supporting grassroots sport
The refurbished courts are designed to increase participation, enable coaching programmes, and support new teams. Governing bodies are working with schools and community groups to embed sport into daily life and ensure facilities are accessible to all.
Other funded sites include Caedu Park in Ogmore Vale (£84,750), further strengthening Bridgend’s multi-sport offering, and several locations across Monmouthshire, Torfaen and Blaenau Gwent.
The Court Collaboration Fund continues to support projects that repurpose underused spaces and promote inclusive, team-based physical activity across Wales.
