Sports hub courts new members with refresh.
A major renovation of the public facilities in the National Badminton Centre is being revealed tonight in Milton Keynes.
One of only eight venues across the country to be awarded ‘Accredited Elite Training Centre’ status by UK Sport in 2023 the centre, in Great Holm, provides world-class badminton courts to clubs, coaches and enthusiasts who can play on the same surfaces as Olympic and Paralympic athletes.
The renovation work, which started last summer, includes a refurbished reception area, a new ‘Shuttle Café’ restaurant and bar, two rejuvenated work, rest and play spaces in new-look lounges and modernised gym and fitness facilities.
The reception area will create an inclusive, welcoming first impression while the new restaurant and bar hopes to cater for all kinds of events from everyday meetings to larger functions.
The National Badminton Museum, located within the centre, has its own identity – a reimagined space balancing the history and heritage of badminton with a sleek, modern seated area.
“We wanted to invest in the public-facing facilities to better meet the demands of both new and existing audiences, to maintain and improve the competitive environment for our elite athletes and to inspire the next generation of badminton players and aspiring athletes,” said Sue Storey, Badminton England CEO.
“We have world-class courts available for the local community – you may even find yourself on a court next to an England player!”
The centre nurtures talented players, but it also wants to encourage amateur participants of all abilities and offers a scheme called No Strings where players can enjoy low-cost fun, relaxed games.
“This is so important,” said Sue Storey. “We want to offer the inspirational environment that will enable the badminton community to want to get on court and play. We have a wonderful community facility, and we want to grow the sport.”
More details here: Find a session | Badminton England.
