Bath remains without any padel courts after Bath and North East Somerset Council rejected previous proposals due to noise concerns likened to “gunfire-like” sounds from racquet impacts. Notably, the council itself backed one of these rejected plans. Now, a fresh proposal by Smash Padel aims to establish five outdoor padel courts alongside a pavilion on the disused former railway station site in Bathampton, a village on Bath’s periphery.
While some Bathampton residents worry that the courts would disrupt the village’s quiet character with constant noise and increased traffic on narrow roads, many voices have rallied in favor of the development. Richard Trevethick, a local resident, emphasized that noise objections have been “grossly over-stated” and pointed out that in many European towns, padel courts coexist harmoniously within village centers as valuable social and sporting hubs.
Smash Padel’s plan involves repurposing the old railway site, which has been unused and deteriorating since the station’s closure in 1966 and subsequent timber yard use. Supporters like Sally Higham, another Bathampton resident, highlighted the benefits for families and local amenities, expressing enthusiasm to use the new facilities.
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The planning portal reflects divided opinions: 184 expressions of support contrast with 100 objections. Opponents cite concerns about noise pollution, parking shortage, and disruption to the village’s tranquility. David Rowlands, a resident opposing the plan, described padel as a noisy sport due to ball impacts against rackets and glass walls, along with players’ voices, potentially creating persistent noise over large areas.
The lack of padel courts within Bath means enthusiasts must travel to Bristol for the rapidly growing sport. Sam Gillespie, a local padel player, stressed the need for nearby courts to accommodate the sport’s popularity.
Alongside this proposal, the University of Bath is also pursuing approval to build two padel courts as part of a substantial student accommodation project at its campus, though that plan remains under review.
As Bathampton’s community and council deliberate, the proposal represents a significant step toward introducing padel courts to the Bath area for the first time.