Wimbledon may be over, but who says the rallies have to stop? Tennis is back on the agenda at Seaclose Park, where 2 of the 3 courts have now reopened.
The reopening, following the Isle of Wight Festival, is thanks to a swift and well-coordinated effort by the Isle of Wight Council’s public realm, parks and open spaces team, ensuring the facilities are match-fit for players once again.
But it’s not just tennis players who have reason to celebrate. The netball courts are back in action too, ready for training, matches, or a friendly game in the sun.
For those who prefer a scenic stroll or cycle, the much-loved shared-use pathway known as N120 — which follows the water’s edge from Seaclose Park toward Island Harbour — has also reopened.
Each summer, Seaclose Park plays host to the iconic Isle of Wight Festival, a highlight of the Island’s cultural calendar that brings music, energy, and thousands of visitors to the Island.
Naturally, such a large-scale event can leave its mark on the park’s infrastructure — but this year, thanks to improved planning and a coordinated response, the reinstatement of public facilities has been completed faster than ever.
Councillor Karen Lucioni, who chairs the council’s environment and community protection committee, says:
“We know how important these spaces are to the community, so getting them back up and running quickly was a top priority.
Article continues below this advertisement “Seaclose Park is more than just a green space — it’s where people come to play, train, relax, and connect. After a major event like the Isle of Wight Festival, there’s always a bit of work to do, but this year we were determined to get everything back in shape as quickly as possible.
“Thanks to some forward planning and a brilliant team effort, we’ve been able to reopen the courts and the path earlier than expected. It’s been lovely to already see people out enjoying them again — it really makes all the hard work worthwhile.”
Perhaps Councillor Karen Lucioni would arrange a council tax refund for the weeks that the “community cannot use the facilities of Seaclose Park.
The pittance the IW Council is paid for hosting the Festival does no way cover the extra costs and disruption it causes.
Have no problem with holding a festival – but please – hold it in August when there are no schools open or exams on – and preferably not in the County town where the Seaclose offices are that have to be closed so again inconveniencing the general public.