Walcot Rugby Club, located on Lansdown Road just north of Bath, is aiming to enhance its facilities by introducing four covered padel courts. This initiative comes as rugby participation declines, while interest in the rapidly growing sport of padel has surged—yet Bath still lacks many places to play.
The club’s proposal involves constructing courts under a lightweight canopy on a small part of the existing training paddock adjacent to its rugby pitches. According to the planning application, this modest reduction in training space will be compensated by offering specialist facilities addressing the city’s shortage of padel courts.
Bath and North East Somerset Council’s planning committee has previously rejected padel court proposals within the city center due to concerns about the sport’s distinctive “gunfire-like” noise possibly affecting neighbors' mental well-being. However, approval was recently granted for some courts at the University of Bath, and Walcot RFC’s plan aims to serve residents on the city’s northern side.
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The club emphasized that diversifying sports offerings is essential for maintaining financial sustainability and attracting a broader community, including providing amenities for parents during children’s rugby sessions.
Padel, a sport combining elements of squash and tennis and played with a solid racquet, originated in Mexico and has seen a global surge in popularity, particularly since the Covid-19 pandemic.
Meanwhile, another proposal to develop padel courts at the former Bathampton railway station is currently under review, with a decision expected by June.
Public comments on Walcot RFC’s planning application are open until May 25, with the council’s decision anticipated by June 25.