Phear Park’s dilapidated tennis courts have been earmarked for a �200,000 make-over after cash from developers was provisionally set aside for the project.

In April, Exmouth residents were asked to vote on how they would spend �250,000 on sport in the town – and more than 600 residents had their say.

The cash, called Section 106 money, was paid as ‘compensation’ by developers to the people of Exmouth from building projects, which were judged to have used up valuable ‘amenity’ space.

The consultation drew 16 ideas from individuals, community groups, sports clubs and other organisations - and almost quarter of those who took part in the consultation supported the project.

And, if the scheme gets ratified at the town council meeting on September 12, the refurbished courts, complete with a multi-use sports area, could be unveiled in time for next summer.

The project was proposed by Leisure East Devon (LED), and they learned this week that their project had been earmarked for �50,000.

Mike Hooper, of LED, said that they were working on obtaining the remainder of the money through a series of grant applications, and that LED would also provide funds to help support the project.

Currently, the disintegrating tennis courts are split into six – three separate enclosed courts, and a larger enclosed area housing three courts.

Mike said: “The courts have deteriorated over the years and are now effectively unusable due to frost damage, and ongoing wear and tear.

“Also, the size of the courts and the run-off areas do not meet the Lawn Tennis Association’s minimum requirements (they are too small.)”

Mike added that they hoped to resurface all the areas using Porous Tarmacadam – a hard-wearing, durable, free-draining playing surface which requires the least maintenance of all of the surfaces available.

Three courts would be dedicated for tennis, and a fourth would also be available for recreational basketball, netball and football.