Walcot Rugby Club, located near Bath on Lansdown Road, is aiming to become a pioneer by building the city’s first covered padel courts. The club has submitted a planning application to construct four courts under a lightweight canopy on a small section of its training paddock adjacent to the rugby pitches.
Facing a decline in rugby participation, Walcot Rugby Club sees padel’s explosive growth as an opportunity. With no existing padel facilities in Bath, the club hopes that offering this fast-growing sport will attract a broader community, support the club financially, and provide more amenities for members and families during training sessions.
Previous attempts to establish padel courts within Bath have met resistance. Bath and North East Somerset Council’s planning committee twice rejected applications due to concerns over the sharp “gunfire-like” noise potentially affecting local residents’ mental health. However, a recent decision approved courts at the University of Bath, indicating a slow opening for the sport in the area. Walcot RFC emphasizes that its plan would serve the northern side of the city, addressing a gap in access.
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Padel, a sport combining elements of squash and tennis with a solid racquet, originated in Mexico and has surged in popularity worldwide, especially since the Covid-19 lockdowns. Another padel court proposal is awaiting approval at the former Bathampton railway station, with a decision expected by June.
Walcot Rugby Club’s planning application remains open for public comment until May 25, with a final decision anticipated by June 25.