I am writing today out of a deeply personal concern for the future of the treasured Westwood Lake Tennis Club, a vital community hub that has brought joy to many residents, including myself. Recently, news broke that the City of Nanaimo bought the tennis club and plans close the tennis club by removing its indoor courts.  A decision that affects not only me but countless individuals who rely on this resource for physical, social, skill development and mental well-being.

The city has proposed removing the bubble that currently protects the indoor courts, with plans to expand Westwood Lake Park by turning this beloved facility into a parking lot and playground, while only retaining the outdoor courts for the public use. This transformation would strip the community of an essential indoor sports venue that accommodates year-round tennis, a sport that promotes a healthy lifestyle, fosters community spirit, and offers a crucial space for adults and children alike to hone their skills and compete.

Tennis is more than just a leisure activity for many of us; it's a lifeline that connects friends, families, and community members. Losing the indoor courts would significantly impact local sports enthusiasts, eliminate tennis programs for schools, and diminish opportunities for local tournaments and events that have long been a staple in our community calendar.

Furthermore, research consistently highlights the importance of maintaining such athletic facilities for community health. A study from the Centre for Health Economics at York University found regular physical activity can reduce overall healthcare costs by enhancing life quality and reducing the risk of disease. By taking away our indoor courts, the City of Nanaimo would inadvertently undermine public health benefits that come from accessible indoor sport facilities in order to keep us playing and practicing to improve our skills on the sport through the Fall and Winter seasons.

Instead of removing this invaluable facility, we urge the City Council to engage with the community to explore alternative solutions. These could include partnerships with local businesses to fund upgrades or initiatives to increase membership and thereby secure sufficient revenue to maintain the club as it is.

We can preserve our beloved indoor tennis courts, but we need your help to demonstrate widespread support for this cause. Please sign and share this petition to urge the City of Nanaimo to reconsider its decision before it is too late. Together, we can protect our community’s well-being and keep the Westwood Lake Tennis Club thriving for future generations.