Plans to build three new indoor padel courts at Ipswich Sports Club are recommended for approval by council officers, despite concerns from nearby residents over noise. The expansion aims to meet growing demand for the rapidly popular sport. The council is scheduled to discuss the proposal on Wednesday.
Ipswich Sports Club, located on Henley Road, has submitted plans to convert part of its car park and a grass area into three indoor padel courts by constructing a canopy. This development is positioned between external tennis courts to the south and the internal tennis court building, adjacent to Fonnereau Way on the site's eastern boundary.
The proposal includes the removal of two trees, including an oak, from the grass area. To address objections from nearby residents regarding noise, the club has developed a mitigation plan. Planning officers have recommended conditions limiting noise to 63 decibels between 8pm and 10pm, and 73 decibels between 8am and 8pm.
Club secretary Jon Tuppen stated: "This expansion reflects both the popularity of the sport and our ambition to provide outstanding opportunities for people of all ages to get involved."
In their recommendation to the council, planning officers noted: "Officers can conclude that the principle of an expanded sports and recreation facility would be appropriate and that proposed development would be acceptable in terms of its appearance. Furthermore the proposal, would not result in unacceptable loss of amenity and would be appropriate having regard to policies relating to trees and biodiversity."
Padel is described as one of the fastest growing sports in the world, and the club seeks to expand its offerings to capitalize on this demand. The Ipswich Borough Council will discuss and decide on the plans during a meeting on Wednesday.