Rundown tennis courts look set to be brought back into action in a deal between a council and players.
The outdoor courts in Ilkeston were shut five years ago after they were deemed to be unsafe.
Since then, the courts have been fenced off and the surface has become more pitted.
Now Erewash Borough Council has agreed a 21-year lease with Stanton Tennis Club for the four courts, which stand on one corner of the Rutland Sports Park.
The council's executive approved the move after being told that repair work could be partly funded by the Lawn Tennis Association.
Leisure spokesman Councillor Michael Wallis said he hoped it would lead to a revival of the sport.
"Tennis is suffering quite badly in this country," he told the executive.
Councillor Carol Hart, who is the chairman of Derbyshire Sport, said: "This is a fantastic thing and will involve young people in exercise.
"The more we can get people involved in sports, particularly the young, the more we can help with their health and tackle obesity. It can make a difference."