WHAT a rare day for English tennis fans. They have not one but two reasons to celebrate.

It was cheering enough to learn that Britain's number one Tim Henman had overcome Wimbledon champion Pete Sampras in the ATP Masters in Cincinnati, his first victory over the world's greatest player. But for Yorkshire players this impressive result will have been eclipsed by York planners' decision to approve a £10 million tennis centre in the city.

When our Tim learns of the decision, he too will be heartened by it. He had already given his support to the plan, as a sports star who was 'discovered' at a David Lloyd academy similar to the one proposed for the Hull Road complex.

That underlines the quality of the project. In partnership with the College of Ripon & York St John, the Next Generation Clubs complex would offer eight indoor and five outdoor tennis courts; two pools; a gymnasium and fitness centre; a restaurant and conference facilities; even a children's adventure playground.

Those who stand to benefit most from such state-of-the-art facilities are young, up-and-coming tennis players. But anyone with an interest in sport will have the chance to make use of the centre during the 500 community hours that forms part of the agreement.

Of the grievances raised by opponents to the development, the most serious came from the Woodlands Respite Care Centre for people with MS. The centre's car park would back on to the home.

Those with this debilitating illness gain greatly from taking a much-needed break at Woodlands. Their need for peace and quiet must be respected.

Councillors appear to have taken this on board. They have insisted on strict regulations to minimise noise.

The plan has now been referred to the Environment Secretary: he will be able to judge whether these safeguards are adequate.

If they are, York can look forward to boasting a sports centre and academy that will be the envy of cities throughout the region.