See my page for more in-depth photos of the damage to the courts.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/173887459363158/permalink/3970660556352477/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/173887459363158/permalink/3970655133019686/

Preston park courts really need renovation. We pay council tax so that the council looks after our city of Brighton and Hove. I'm not sure where these taxes are spent but over years this court has been left to go to ruin. It is such a shame as the space has such potential to be utilized to it's full potential.

Tennis courts are kept with even surfaces, markings and nets are provided and replaced when broken, so why are basketball courts not given the same amount of care?

The court has uneven, patchy and cracked ground and there is only one net, that was provided by a generous member of the public. The cracks, holes and the actual gravely concrete collects dirt and when it rains, water. Small lumps of gravel have come loose and are scattered across the court surface. There are paint spilled and dried solid, lumps and potholes which are also trip/slip hazards.

It would be great to provide a smooth, flat, safe surface, necessary to play games safely and efficiently. Nets need to be installed on all courts so games can be played properly.

The surface of the courts is a potential hazard and could cause trips and other injuries. Court marking also needs to be put down in order to train, teach and learn whilst also being able to play games accurately. Being next to a playground, on many occasions young children that are watching want to play themselves only to be prevented by parents/guardians due to the dirty and unsafe condition of the courts. Whereas conversely, children of all ages alongside adults play at the Brighton beach court because it has been cleaned up and renovated in the past, however, this to needs renovating and resurfacing again.

Floodlights would also enable the public to play longer and provide opportunities to those who work days. The lights would also provide a safe, secure place to play in the evenings. Preventing any crime in the area. I train and play myself at these courts and also brighton seafront and others, meeting many people this way. Basketball is a fun social sport, providing a community to meet friends of different ages and from all walks of life. Playing socially means you can exchange advice and techniques and join in local games. It is a great way to support those struggling with mental health such as depression, getting involved in the community and keeping physically and mentally healthy.

If, like me, you are passionate about basketball, local community and renovation and continual upkeep of outdoor public sports facilities, please SIGN and SHARE this petition. Thank you.

Let's make this happen.

Rosy Hewetson