TOWN planners have received a planning application for five covered padel courts at the rear of The Village Hotel on Centre Parks, Warrington.
The application site is located within the Village Hotel Warrington, to the rear of the hotel building. It currently comprises two disused tennis courts and some trees. The site is
screened by tress to its north, east and south.
Padel is a racket sport that draws influence from tennis and squash. It is played in doubles on an enclosed court where players can use the walls to return shots. The game involves rackets and balls similar to those used in tennis.
Village Hotels will develop this facility to supplement their existing leisure offer for their customers. The proposed padel courts will be accessible to hotel guests and members of the public who hold memberships of the hotel.
Each proposed sport surface measures 20 metres long by 10 metres wide, enclosed by approximately 3 metres tall glass screens. The glass screens will be installed around the perimeter of each sport surface and are part of the sport facilities. Players use these screens to return the ball off the glass.
All the sport surfaces and the glass screens are contained under an arched canopy, which will be a lightweight structure supported by metal columns with mesh side screens attached to the upper parts of the columns. This will allow the facility to be used in all weather conditions and also absorbs noises. The open mesh side screens provide an outdoor environment and atmosphere.
Each court will be lighted by 4 no. court lights, which will be installed below the canopy shelter.
The applicants state Padel is a relatively new and rapidly growing sport, with limited provision currently available locally. The proposed development will help address this gap in leisure facilities, expanding participation opportunities for both new and existing users of racket sports.
Planners will make a decision under delegated powers.
