The tennis courts in Abbey Fields could stop being free to use as Warwick District Council has proposed changes to the way it manages its courts.

The council has said fees would be "affordable" and used to fund future maintenance.

WDC is also proposing that the 21 tennis courts in the district be managed by an external organisation, to organise sessions and bookings.

Residents have been asked to share their views on the plans before any exact fees are announced.

Charges are already in place at Victoria Park and St Nicholas Park, whilst courts in Abbey Fields and Christchurch Gardens in Leamington are currently free to use without prior booking.

Cllr Liam Bartlett said fees were necessary to "ensure that tennis provision in the area is sustainable" and courts were the same across the district.

"The current level of income received from the courts at Victoria Park and St Nicholas Park does not cover the basic ongoing costs of day-to-day maintenance or future upgrade work, such as resurfacing," he said.

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And WDC said plans to appoint either a single or several operators to manage the courts would "widen the opportunities for local people" to enjoy tennis.

Cllr Bartlett added: "At present, there are no organised activities on the tennis courts at St Nicholas Park, Abbey Fields or Christchurch Gardens.

"The proposal to have all venues operated by one or more experienced organisations means that a range of activities including taster sessions, coaching, holiday clubs, walking and disability sessions will be able to take place, making the sport accessible for everyone.

"This will enable the courts at all of the sites to be used to their best potential, increasing people's physical activity, introducing more people to this wonderful game and allowing people access to a range of activities including coaching right across the district."

The council has not commented on how this could affect access to the basketball court in Abbey Fields.

Residents have until October 24 to share their views.

The online consultation can be accessed here.