Kenilworth Tennis, Squash, and Croquet Club has been awarded £83,120 from HS2's Community & Environment Fund (CEF) to support improvements aimed at enhancing accessibility, safety and sustainability at its Crackley Lane site.

Located less than one mile from the HS2 construction works along the A429 Coventry Road, the club has long been a cornerstone of the local community, providing inclusive and affordable sporting opportunities for people aged from three to over 80.

With a history spanning more than a century, the club continues to evolve to meet growing demand from members, visitors and community groups across Kenilworth, Warwickshire and nearby Coventry.

The funding will contribute towards a programme of upgrades designed to improve the experience for all users.

Planned improvements include:

• Replacement of the clubhouse's ageing outdoor decking, creating a more accessible and welcoming social space, including improved access for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility
• Installation of wider pathways connecting tennis, padel and croquet facilities
• New secure cycle parking to encourage sustainable travel
• Enhanced lighting in the car park to improve safety for members, visitors and staff, particularly during winter months

These developments come at a time of significant growth for the club, following the introduction of padel tennis—one of the world's fastest-growing sports—and the expansion of its "pay and play" offering, opening facilities to the wider public.

In addition to its sporting provision, the club serves as a hub for a range of community activities, including youth coaching programmes, disability tennis sessions and support groups linked to dementia care.

Its clubhouse is also used for fitness classes, social gatherings and local events.

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Club President Allen Hubbard said: "We are delighted to receive this support from HS2.

"These improvements will help us continue to grow as an inclusive, community-focused club, ensuring our facilities are accessible, safe and welcoming for everyone."

The CEF fund has been created by HS2 to add benefit to communities along the route that are demonstrably disrupted by the construction of HS2.

The administration of these funds is managed on behalf of HS2 Ltd by the community charity, Groundwork UK.

Further information can be found here.

The club expects to complete the improvements over the next 12 months, ensuring it remains a vibrant and accessible destination for sport and community activity.