The Western Cape High Court has granted interim relief to LivPadel Knysna Hollow, halting a municipal decision to close its padel courts over noise complaints. The order suspends enforcement until a full review, allowing the facility to reopen during the peak holiday season. This development comes amid ongoing financial pressures on the Knysna Municipality.
The dispute began after LivPadel Knysna Hollow received municipal approval for its site development in December 2022 and building plans in January 2023. The padel courts operated for several months before nearby residents raised noise concerns. An independent acoustic assessment commissioned by the company concluded that the noise levels did not violate Western Cape Noise Control Regulations during daytime hours.
Despite this finding, the issue escalated through municipal hearings, a tribunal, and an internal appeal. On 3 December 2025, Knysna Mayor Thando Matika, as the appeal authority, issued a decision prohibiting public use of the courts with immediate effect. This came after a delay of about 110 days, far exceeding the required 21-day response period, resulting in an abrupt closure during the busy holiday season.
LivPadel sought urgent relief from the Western Cape High Court, which on 18 December ordered the suspension of the appeal decision's implementation pending a review application. The court specified that proceedings must be initiated within 60 days and directed each party to cover its own legal costs. Mayor Matika declined to comment, citing the sub judice status.
As a result, the courts reopened to the public last week. LivPadel stated, "In practical terms, this means that LivPadel Knysna may resume normal public operations on the same basis that existed prior to 4 December," with bookings now available again. The company emphasized its cooperation: "fully co-operative with Knysna Municipality and the High Court" and committed to being "considerate neighbours and a positive contributor to the Knysna community and tourism economy."
The review will address the lawfulness of the municipal decision, set against the backdrop of Knysna Municipality's acknowledged financial constraints. Community questions have arisen over the costs of prolonged legal processes. At publication, the municipality had not responded to queries on the ruling.
