Strong support for plans for Padel tennis centre in Blackpool still awaiting council decision
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Proposals to build an indoor padel tennis centre in Blackpool have attracted widespread support.
Plans were revealed in January to add four indoor padel courts to existing sports facilities at South Shore Tennis Club on Midgeland Road, which already include an indoor tennis court.
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A planning application was submitted to Blackpool Council for the scheme to construct a building on the site which would contain four padel courts to be used all year round, with changing rooms and a spectator area.
Padel tennis is a mix between tennis and squash played on a court one-third the size of a tennis court and enclosed to a height of four metres by walls usually made from glass.
Town hall planners have yet to make a decision on the application, but it has attracted 68 comments, of which 65 are in support of the proposals. Supporters say if the development goes ahead it would be good enough to bring national padel tournaments to Blackpool, as well as promoting what is the world’s fastest growing sport among local players.
Other comments highlight that having indoor courts would enable padel to be played year-round, with some players saying they currently have to travel as far as Harrogate for indoor padel facilities.
One supporter of the scheme says: “Padel is growing massively in Europe and I think it’s brilliant Blackpool will be bringing it into focus with this development. Not only is it suited to all ages which makes it a welcome addition to the resort town but it will no doubt be a very popular new activity for local children.”
However while those backing the application come from across the Fylde coast, two objections have been received from local residents, with concerns including the padel building will be out of keeping with the area.
Objectors also say there is not enough parking at the site. It is suggested the development would be better located as part of the community sports village recently launched on Common Edge Road.
The application (reference 23/0897), which was submitted in December last year, is currently lodged with Blackpool Council planners awaiting a decision.