Ever since Bletchley Leisure Centre opened its doors in 1973, squash courts have been a part of the sporting offering.
But on Monday, after 53 years, the four courts on site closed.
The space will now be converted into a soft-play and family party facility, to the dismay of those who use the space weekly.
“I am one of 24 regular squash players in a group that uses the courts, although there are a number of regular and occasional user groups affected by the closure," said Ben Chittenden.
"I'm devastated by the decision to permanently close the courts and many of the other players feel the same way. Many of my fellow players live in Bletchley within walking distance from their local leisure centre they've used for many years and are now going to have to travel some distance to play.
"Squash provision to the city is now very low. Squash courts at Oakgrove Leisure Centre, MK Squash at Kiln Farm and at Ousedale School have closed in recent years. This is very disappointing considering squash will appear in the next Olympics for the very first time," he told us.
“Our main concern is the lack of meaningful consultation before the permanent removal of this long-established community sporting facility,” Ben added, “We are not opposed to investment in children's and family facilities, but believe the redevelopment should be paused to allow the local community and existing squash users a genuine opportunity to be heard and for alternatives to be properly considered.”
Ben, 46, has been a regular player at the centre for almost two decades.
"I often use the courts twice per week and sometimes three times per week for singles and doubles. We've been regular customers of the leisure centre and the Wetherspoons next door and unfortunately it looks like we'll no longer be going to either of these places."
The removal of the squash courts was not included in Serco Leisure and More Leisure Community Trust's original tender submission, but came following a review of the court area.
A spokesperson for Milton Keynes City Council told MKFM: “As part of wider investment in Bletchley Leisure Centre, the squash court space is being repurposed after a review showed the courts had very low levels of use.
"The change will allow us to introduce new facilities that better reflect current customer demand. Alternative squash courts are available at Swan Pool and Leisure Centre at a discounted rate for members."
