Tennis club 'disappointed' with council's decision

A sports club in Douglas says it's very disappointed it can't buy or lease land from the borough council to expand its facilities.

Albany Lawn Tennis Club asked if it could have a small portion of land at Ballaughton Nurseries, so it could create what it calls 'two much needed courts'.

The club said it would bear the full cost of the project - up to £100,000 - and would give the council some 'public time' on the courts if the deal went through.

However, the council has made it clear it needs the land, and the scrubs it grows there for its parks and hanging baskets, which would cost £20,000 a year to buy in.

The club says it has over 300 members and is stressing that it needs more space and court time to operate under its present structure.