Change of use plans submitted to Newark and Sherwood District Council to create padel court facility on Longland Lane, Farnsfield

New plans could see new courts built in our area for “the fastest growing sport in the world”, if approved.

An application has been submitted to Newark and Sherwood District Council for the change of use of a storage building on Longland Lane, Farnsfield, to form a padel court facility.

Padel is a fast paced racket and ball sport, which uses the same scoring system as tennis, but with the ability to bounce the ball off of walls, similar to squash.

Originally created in Mexico in the late 1960s, over the past few years it’s popularity has increased across the UK, with the Lawn Tennis Association describing it as “the fastest growing sport in the world”.

To capitalise on this increased interest in the sport, the applicant argues that the building is ideal for this use, with the nearest padel courts located in Mansfield and Nottingham.

The proposed courts in Farnsfield would also be the only indoor facility in Nottinghamshire, meaning they can be used year round and regardless of bad weather.

The plans would see part of an unused unit on the current Sarah Cox Cars site converted to house the padel courts, which would then be rented out operated by Destino Padel.

This building would be split into three double courts and one single court, alongside a gym space for warming up, and to limit any noise created by play, acoustic curtains will be provided

In addition, the plans include a reception counter, changing room, toilet facilities, as well as seating areas and vending machines for spectators and players.

The applicant expects the facility will be busier in the evenings, and time slots of between 1 and 1.5 hours will be available to book online, from 7am to 10pm, every day of the week.

The proposed business model will be a ‘pay as you go’ system, but memberships will also be offered, and when the reception is not manned visitors will be able to access the building using a security code system.

The business is also expected to create employment for 2 or 3 persons per day, and Destino Padel stated that the facilities will be offered to schools and community groups in the area.

No alterations will be made to the building externally for the change of use, and the existing 20 car parking spaces on site are deemed sufficient.

Newark and Sherwood District Council, as the local planning authority, will have the final say on any decision.