Historic Norbury Park tennis club mobilising to save its future
One of the world’s oldest tennis clubs is looking to secure its long-term future.
Norbury Park Lawn Tennis Club (Norbury Park LTC) has started a fundraising campaign to secure a 999-year lease from site owner Croydon council.
The club, in Ederline Avenue, was established in 1889, just 12 years after The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club was formed in Wimbledon, and celebrates its 136th anniversary this year.
Members and residents have rallied to raise funds to secure its future, but fundraising manager Lisa Patient said: “Unlike some other tennis clubs, Norbury Park LTC does not have a large membership and the backing of well-off members.”
A GoFundMe page has gathered momentum, though, and corporate purchases of sponsorship packages are available.
Almost £14,000 of the £25,000 goal has been raised so far, through donations and events.
Widely regarded as an important local community resource, it not only provides a recreational space but also a support network for children and families.
The club runs a programme for children, including those with disabilities, providing tailored tennis coaching and inclusive activities.
The clubhouse hosts a much-loved nursery, while at other times the space is available to hire for parties, functions and meetings.
Blaise Westmaas, chairwoman of the club said: “We believe that Norbury Park Lawn Tennis Club is much more than just a tennis club – it is a cornerstone of our community.”
The club is situated on the edge of Norbury Hall Park. Ian Clarke, chairman of Scots Estate Residents’ Association (SERA), said: “As well as the obvious health and well-being benefits of a green space and the opportunity to participate in sport, the club is central to our local community.
“It has been particularly helpful to SERA and the Friends of Norbury Hall Park [the group that maintains the park] in hosting events and meetings in an area with a distinct lack of affordable community space.”
MP Steve Reed said: “It’s such an amazing facility that provides a huge service here in Norbury and beyond.
“I’m encouraging people to support upcoming fundraising events to safeguard this club for the future.”
Monthly membership is £25 for adults, with family packages available. Tennis lessons charged additionally are available, as well as tennis training camps for children.
A council spokeswoman said: “We are not selling the Norbury Tennis Club site.
“We are working with the tennis club to grant them a long term (999 years) lease which will provide them with greater security.
“We signed a heads of terms agreement with them in October 2024, and we are currently in negotiations with them to finalise the lease.
To donate, go to https://www.gofundme.com/f/