Tennis facility replaces Brandermill condo plan
By Greg Pearson STAFF WRITER

A plan to replace 12 tennis courts at Brandermill Country Club with 45 condominiums has been scrubbed to make way for an enclosed tennis facility by the Midlothian Tennis Club (MTC). The proposed enclosure of four tennis courts could open by year's end, said Ken Baker, one of the investors.

In addition to the enclosed tennis facility, MTC would own and operate 14 outdoor tennis courts while leasing the tennis overlook and two courts near the country club building for $1 per year. The country club has the option of expanding its existing building, but Baker thought that was unlikely, because it would require the addition of 100 more parking spaces.

MTC is already talking to county planners to resolve the issue of open space, which stymied the Brandermill club's condo plans. "We're very optimistic about the open space issue, because enclosing the tennis courts doesn't change its function," said Baker. Brandermill's master plan calls for the community to have a certain amount of open space, and the outdoor tennis courts helped meet that requirement.

The announcement was made by Greg Smith, Brandermill's general manager, last Wednesday during a meeting at the country club. The 30-year-old country club currently has 501 members.

The agreement between the parties is based on a letter of intent pending successful resolution of the open space issue with the county. Baker declined to name the selling price. "Both parties are very happy," he replied.

MTC has selected its board of directors, and anticipates a future membership of at least 250 members. Its atrium would include office space, a restaurant and childcare.