They are worried the new game will be louder than tennis – which is already played at the East Anglia Tennis and Squash Club – if the site’s bid for a padel court is given the go-ahead.

East Anglia Tennis and Squash Club lodged a second application for another padel court at its site on Lime Tree RoadEast Anglia Tennis and Squash Club lodged a second application for another padel court at its site on Lime Tree Road (Image: Newsquest)


Some of the people objecting to the plans, which were lodged in June, live just a few meters from where the court is proposed to be built.

Erin Riches, 45, said: “I’m just worried that the padel would be louder than the tennis. 

Erin Riches, 45, who lives on Plantsman CloseErin Riches, 45, who lives on Plantsman Close (Image: Newsquest) “The thought of our peace being disturbed is really concerning because at the moment, the noise of tennis balls is actually quite calming.” 

Erin also said she and her neighbours had received a letter warning them of the impact the padel court would have, saying the noise of the ball being hit sounded like a “gunshot”. 

Nicky Wade, 85, whose home overlooks the back of the tennis club, was sceptical that the objections would have any sway in the final decision.

Nicky Wade who is 85 is concerned the objections will not be consideredNicky Wade who is 85 is concerned the objections will not be considered (Image: Newsquest) READ MORE: Padel courts set to be built at golf course

She said: “The plip plop of a tennis ball is delightful but I have no confidence that our objections will be taken into account.”

But not everyone shares their fears. 

Ann West, 87, whose home also overlooks the back of the tennis club, said: “I’m very happy with them. I don’t understand people complaining about them.

“It’s a pleasant noise in the area.”

Ann West said she it's a pleasant noise in the areaAnn West said she it’s a pleasant noise in the area (Image: Newsquest) READ MORE: Padel tennis courts to be built at Norfolk Premier Golf

Linda Lloyds was also unfazed by the plans. 

The 67-year-old said: “I’m used to the tennis courts. I’ve been here for 17 years and I don’t think it will bother me.” 

Linda Lloyds said she was used to the sound of tennis so padel would not concern herLinda Lloyds said she was used to the sound of tennis so padel would not concern her (Image: Newsquest) A noise assessment carried out by Walker Beak Mason Limited on behalf of the club concluded “the development of padel tennis courts should not cause adverse impact on nearby dwellings with regard to noise.” 

The East Anglia Tennis Club has been approached for comment.Â