Padel tennis is set to gain a foothold in Bath after the local council relaxed its strict stance on the sport’s presence in the city. Previously, Bath and North East Somerset Council had declined multiple applications for padel courts, citing concerns over the game’s distinctive “gunfire-like” noise. However, planning permission has now been granted for five courts to be built at the former railway station site in Bathampton, a village on the outskirts of the city.
Councillor Ian Halsall, a member of the planning committee representing Oldfield Park for the Liberal Democrats, commented on the decision: “If you can’t have a padel tennis court here, you can’t have one anywhere. The substantial support we have received clearly demonstrates the demand for this sport.”
Interest from the community was evident, with over 180 people submitting comments supporting Smash Padel’s application. One player expressed the need for local facilities, stating that they and their friends were compelled to travel to Bristol to play, emphasising that “Bath is in dire need of padel courts.”
Originating from Mexico, padel is a sport akin to squash but is played outdoors with a solid racket and has experienced rapid growth since the Covid-19 pandemic. This rise in popularity has prompted the demand for facilities closer to home.
Rupert Taylor, CEO of Smash Padel and a resident of Bath, welcomed the approval, highlighting the suitability of the Bathampton site: “It’s a location with history and character, and we have designed a club that respects its environment. Bath values its heritage and green spaces, so we approached our plans with sensitivity. We look forward to developing the site and welcoming players aged four and above when we open.”
Concerns had been raised by local residents regarding potential noise and increased traffic, particularly around the privately-owned lane accessed from the canal bridge junction. However, council assessments concluded that the nearest residence is 170 metres from the courts, and the traffic team did not foresee any issues.
This approval follows previous refusals, such as the rejected application for courts at Lansdown Lawn Tennis Club, where homes are just 3.5 metres from the proposed site, raising noise and mental health concerns. Another council-led proposal at Odd Down Sports Ground was also turned down on similar noise grounds.
Technically, the Bathampton courts are not the first padel courts approved within the city limits. The University of Bath secured permission earlier this year for two courts as part of a large student accommodation development. However, public access to these courts remains uncertain. Meanwhile, another company is pursuing planning for four courts at Walcot Rugby Club on Charlcombe Lane.
Smash Padel’s Bath location marks their seventh UK club and second in Somerset, complementing their existing venue in Taunton. The club plans to offer free introductory sessions, comprehensive coaching, and junior programmes, continuing their commitment to building community-focused hubs across the UK.