Redbridge Council is set to introduce new pickleball courts at Oaks Park as part of a wider commitment to expanding leisure facilities and promoting community well-being. The plans, discussed at the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, also include the development of a climbing centre and the refurbishment of the Lido at Valentine's Park.
This initiative is part of a broader investment in leisure and cultural services, aimed at modernising facilities and providing residents with more opportunities for recreation and exercise. Councillor Namreen Chowdhury, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Culture, highlighted the council's dedication to investing in these areas, stating, This budget is delivering in our leisure and cultural services. We are investing in our leisure facilities and libraries at a time when many councils are scaling back on leisure and culture. We are choosing to invest responsibly, modernise strategically and protect the infrastructure that keeps our communities healthy, connected and resilient.
The introduction of pickleball courts is expected to enhance the range of activities available to residents, contributing to a more vibrant and active community. Further details on the design and timeline for the pickleball courts and other new facilities are expected as plans progress.
The plans were discussed as part of the council's budget and capital investment strategy for 2026-27 to 2030-31, as detailed in the Revenue and Capital Budget and Council Tax 2026 27 and MTFS 2026 27 2030 31 - Reportb document [https://moderngov.redbridge.gov.uk/documents/s172858/Revenue%20and%20Capital%20Budget%20and%20Council%20Tax%202026%2027%20and%20MTFS%202026%2027%202030%2031%20-%20Reportb.pdf]. Further information on capital investment can be found in the Appendix B - Capital Investment Strategy 2026-27 - 2030-31 [https://moderngov.redbridge.gov.uk/documents/s172834/Appendix%20B%20-%20Capital%20Investment%20Strategy%202026-27%20-%202030-31.pdf] and Appendix C New Capital Schemes 202627 2023031 [https://moderngov.redbridge.gov.uk/documents/s172835/Appendix%20C%20New%20Capital%20Schemes%20202627%202023031.pdf].