A 'FLAGSHIP' Wirral tennis centre is to be refurbished in a £700,000 project.

The revamped centre in Bidston – already a nationally recognised centre for excellence in Tennis – will feature an improved gym, new equipment throughout, improved badminton courts and fully refurbished of changing rooms.

The work will also see a major upgrade to its reception area, shop and café.

Cabinet member for leisure, Cllr Phill Brightmore, said: "The decision to invest rather than simply maintain once again demonstrates our commitment to making Wirral's leisure centres fit for purpose and desirable places to visit and use – whether it's tennis, the gym or badminton.

"But it’s a real honour to be able to announce these plans after such a fantastic Wimbledon weekend finale, and show our commitment to this increasingly popular sport.

"The centre at Bidston is well-loved by those who use it and in a central location with good transport links and has a successful track record of hosting tennis tournaments.

"These improvements will help consolidate its position as the leading tennis centre in our region and lay the foundations for an even brighter future."

He added: "People in Wirral know the council has had to make massive cuts to its budget over the last several years – we've been forced to make cuts of £250 million since 2010 and must find a further £45million in 2019.

"We also know that tough decisions are increasingly necessary to ensure our leisure services are affordable and fit for purpose, now and in the future and I believe this investment in Wirral Tennis Centre at Bidston will play a key role in attracting more people to use and thereby help to safeguard its future."