A significant new sports venture is taking shape in Somerset as Queen’s School, in partnership with Smash Padel, has received full planning permission for an ambitious padel tennis project. The green light enables the construction of six cutting-edge, panoramic covered courts designed for year-round, all-weather play.
Construction is set to begin in December, with canopy installation scheduled for February and completion of the courts, pavilion, and landscaped areas expected by spring. The facility aims to open officially in April 2026, welcoming both students and the wider Taunton community.
Kim Dawkins, bursar at Queen’s, emphasized the project’s importance: “Securing planning permission marks a huge milestone. This initiative demonstrates our dedication to delivering top-tier sporting facilities accessible to everyone. Smash Padel is more than just a partner—they are integral to our community. We also appreciate the invaluable support from Taunton Town Council throughout the process.”
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Tom Bell, director of sport at Queen’s, highlighted the opportunity for students: “Our pupils will benefit from integrated padel instruction within PE classes, co-curricular activities, and performance training. Padel is an outstanding sport for fostering teamwork, confidence, and physical fitness. We’re excited to see its growth here and across Taunton.”
Carson Russell, chief operating officer of Smash Padel, spoke on the broader impact: “Our collaboration with Queen’s goes beyond creating facilities. We are committed to promoting inclusion, participation, and opportunity. Investing in this development means investing in the people who will engage with the sport and community.”
The project also prioritizes environmental sustainability, with plans for biodiversity enhancements and wildlife-friendly lighting, reflecting Queen’s ongoing environmental commitments.
Ian Thomas, a governor at Queen’s, remarked, “This development underscores Queen’s dual role as an educational leader and community contributor. We look forward to inviting pupils, families, and residents to enjoy and embrace padel as a new sporting tradition in Taunton.”