Changes in pipeline at Lancaster leisure centre as padel court plans unveiled

Soul Padel Ltd have submitted a planning application to Lancaster City Council to install outdoor padel (racket sport) courts with canopies, boundary fencing and a clubhouse at Salt Ayre Leisure Centre.

Planning documents said: “The site forms part of Salt Ayre Leisure Centre. The land subject to this application is currently a small mini-golf area and balance bike track forming part of the leisure centre facilities, the main building for which is located directly to the east and the associated car park to the south west.

“The proposal is for the installation of four covered padel courts with a clubhouse facility which will replace the existing mini-golf and part of the balance bike track.

“The play area to south will remain unaffected.

“The padel courts comprise the playing area which are surrounded by wire mesh fencing and tempered glass panels which range in height from 3m high along the sides and 4m high at the end

of the courts with integrated court lighting columns. Each court measures 20.2m x 10.2m.

“The proposal also includes the installation of canopies over the courts which will provide weather protection, allowing for year-round use of the facilities, as well as assisting in noise reduction.

“There will also be an ancillary clubhouse facility that will be housed within two, modified container buildings sited directly adjacent to the main entrance on the southern edge of the site.

“This will include a reception desk, changing rooms, accessible toilets, coffee bar with seating area and storage facilities.”

The planning documents also said the site had been chosen as an existing sport and recreation ‘hub’ comprising the leisure centre and a vast array of other facilities including the all weather sports pitches, the athletics track and a number of playing pitches.

The planning documents said in conclusion: “Overall, the proposed development represents a positive and beneficial use of underutilised land, delivering modern, accessible and much-needed sports facilities for the local community, to be delivered by an experienced padel operator with a proven track record working in partnership with the Council.”

Councillors have yet to make a decision on the planning application.

View the planning application reference number 26/00275/FUL at https://www.lancaster.gov.uk/planning