An extension for a new sports complex in Elgin has been approved – before the original works are even finished.
Four indoor tennis courts have been approved for the Moray Sports Centre in the south of the town.
Yesterday, the council’s planning committee unanimously approved the project, which was hailed as an “exciting development” for the region.
The team behind the scheme has applied to the Transforming Scottish Indoor Tennis fund, supported by Tennis Scotland, Sport Scotland and the Lawn Tennis Association, to have project designated as the regional centre for the sport in the north of Scotland.
It is hoped that having indoor facilities that will be accessible year-round will attract professional coaches to nurture local talent.
Kathryn Evans, chief executive of Moray Sports Centre, said: “This is an exciting opportunity to increase the provision of much-needed sports facilities in the area.
“Our ambition is to be the first completed project from this fund in Scotland. It would be a huge benefit to all tennis players to have year-round access – not only now but for the next 20 to 50 years.
“We need our community to buy into the centre and courts to make it a success.”
Construction on the first phase of the sports centre, which will include the main games hall as well as a gym and cafe, is expected to finish next year.
Planning committee member, Aaron McLean, said: “It’s exciting to see something like this happening in Moray. It’s good for our young people and older people alike.”
