A village will gain a new padel tennis facility after permission was granted for a development aimed at meeting demand for the fast-rising sport.
The approval from Melton Borough Council, granted recently, allows for the development of a padel tennis centre at Barbrey Business Park on Orston Lane, in Bottesford.
The scheme is expected to help fill a gap in padel provision around Grantham and the wider Vale of Belvoir, offering players a closer option to home instead of travelling to venues in Newark or Nottingham.
An artist’s impression of the proposed padel tennis facility on Orston Lane in Bottesford.Credit: cpmg-architects.com
The scheme includes three covered courts, a reception area, a coffee shop and supporting facilities.
GraceMachin Planning and Property secured the approval on behalf of the Norris family, following a planning application that attracted strong support from the community.
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The proposal faced several planning challenges, including the introduction of a leisure use on land identified for employment purposes, as well as access, highway safety, drainage and biodiversity net gain requirements.
CGI showing the kiosk and reception area planned as part of the new padel tennis development.Credit: cpmg-architects.com
The planning consultancy worked with stakeholders to address these issues, leading to a recommendation for approval.
In total, 35 letters of support were submitted by residents from Bottesford and the wider Vale of Belvoir, highlighting demand for additional sporting facilities.
One resident said the courts would benefit players of all ages and provide both physical and mental health benefits, adding that many villagers currently travel outside the area to play.
A view of the approved padel tennis courts from Orston Lane, Bottesford.Credit: cpmg-architects.com
Nick Grace, partner at GraceMachin Planning and Property, said: “This approval is a great success for the community and fills a clear gap in the padel market around Grantham and the Vale of Belvoir.”
He added: “The strong local support demonstrated just how valuable this facility will be for Bottesford.”
Andy Smith, speaking on behalf of the Norris family, said development would begin once the Biodiversity Gain Plan receives approval.
An aerial CGI showing the layout of the padel tennis facility at Barbrey Business Park.Credit: cpmg-architects.com
He added: “We are hopeful that by the end of the summer we will be playing padel in Bottesford.”