Firbank Dale LTC

Beginnings (1947)

In 1947, residents of Heather Road, Elaine Crescent and Merlin Crescent in St. Julian’s came together to purchase a second-hand army hut. Erected on land leased from the Council, it became the Firbank Dale Social Centre. The existing tennis courts on the site were refurbished, and from this, Firbank Dale Tennis Club was born.

Back then, the courts were shale, and the pavilion was a small wooden hut without electricity or water. Despite these modest beginnings, the Club thrived as a hub for social tennis. Although membership occasionally dropped to single figures, the Club always bounced back — continuing to serve the local community.

Building for the Future (1980s)

By the early 1980s, members recognised the need for modern facilities to keep pace with other local activities. The priority became a new pavilion. Through fundraising events, member loans, support from the Lawn Tennis Association, and a grant from the Sports Council for Wales, the present pavilion was completed in 1984.

During this time, the Junior section grew rapidly, with strong links built with local schools including St. Julian’s, Eveswell, Maindee, Durham Road Juniors, and St. Julian’s Comprehensive.

The New Courts (2000)

By the mid-1990s, the shale courts had become outdated and difficult to maintain. After careful research, the Club decided to install artificial grass courts, extend the playing area, and create a new entrance with improved accessibility.

The project, costing over £200,000, was made possible thanks to grants from the Lottery Sports Fund for Wales, the Foundation for Sport and the Arts, the Newport Environment Action Fund, and Newport County Borough Council, along with loans from the LTA and generous contributions from members. The new courts officially opened in 2000, ushering in a new era for the Club.

Membership grew significantly, and a junior programme with professional coaching was established, strengthening ties with local schools and offering young players the chance to develop their tennis and social skills.

Challenges and Renewal (2012)

In 2012, the Social Centre suffered thefts and vandalism, forcing its closure for nine months. With the help of Club volunteers and new community partners, including a children’s pre-school nursery, the Centre was restored and reopened in September 2012 — once again providing a valuable service to local families, just as it had since 1947.

Recent Years (2017–2023)

2017 – 🎾 Court No.1 was resurfaced at a cost of £18,000, funded through the Club’s sinking fund and member loans.

2019 – 📈 Adult membership rose slightly, while junior numbers increased significantly.

2020–2021 – 🦠 Like all sports clubs, Firbank Dale faced major disruption due to the Covid-19 pandemic. With nationwide lockdowns, courts were closed for long periods. 🙏 Despite this, our members remained loyal, and participation resumed as restrictions eased, supported by the successful rollout of vaccines 💉.

Today, Firbank Dale Tennis Club continues to thrive — proud of its community roots, strong traditions, and commitment to offering both social and competitive tennis for all ages.