As an active participant in the local tennis league, I am reaching out to address a serious concern impacting many in our community. The current proposal to charge fees for access to Cambridge central tennis courts is threatening to make a sport we love almost inaccessible for regular individuals. Courts at Jesus Green and Christ Pieces, until now, areas that everyone could enjoy without facing the barrier of hefty club membership fees.

With council tax recently increased, and our area already being the most expensive to live in the country, additional fees to access these courts are an unjust burden to local citizens. This move disproportionally affects people like me who love tennis but cannot afford to pay up to £10 per game. Tennis should be a sport for everyone, not just for those who can afford such fees.

The beauty of tennis has always been its capacity to bridge people from all walks of life - it’s more than just a game; it’s a reflection of our community spirit. The council, instead of widening the social gap, should stand to preserve these public goods as is.

We urge the council to rethink their decision. By maintaining free public access to the tennis courts, they ensure that those without the means to afford club memberships can still participate in this beloved sport. Let's keep tennis accessible to all, not exclusive for the elite. Please, sign this petition to show your support. Let's tell the council, we stand for fair access to public amenities and demand they keep public tennis courts in Cambridge free.