PADEL players could soon make the most of three new “state of the art” courts in Salisbury if new plans are approved.

The rapidly growing sport combines tennis with squash and has become more popular in recent years, with more than 30 million players worldwide.

If the application is approved, construction of the courts is expected to start in 2025/26 and would be funded entirely by Victoria Park Community Tennis Club.

The tennis club anticipates that construction would only take two to three months, dependent on weather conditions.

The new courts would fill a void in the city, as there are not currently any padel courts in Salisbury.

The plans, put together by CRD Building Consultancy, said the project offers an “exciting opportunity to introduce a new, accessible sport for the entire community to enjoy.”

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The facility would sit near the western boundary of the site where the current multi-use games area (MUGA) is located, with the MUGA to be relocated to the south-eastern part of the site adjacent to the existing children’s play area.

The existing MUGA and proposed site of the padel courts Picture: CRD Building Consultancy

Each 20m by 10m court would be enclosed, and they would be open from 8am to 10pm every day. Courts would not be able to be booked after 9pm and the downward-facing lights would not be left on after 10pm.

All the courts would be inspected and brushed each week.

Victoria Park Tennis presented their plans for the courts at a meeting of Salisbury City Council in May, and councillors described the plans as “really exciting”.

Councillor John Wells said: “Victoria Park is at the centre of St Francis and Stratford ward and is an ideal location for an additional facility for people of all ages which complements the existing facilities in promoting community engagement, health, and well-being.

“Alongside the existing thriving tennis club based in the park it will undoubtedly engage the wider community. It will offer a different another opportunity for physical activity which is great fun for all ages regardless of their intention or desire to play tennis.

“It will particularly provide a much-needed increase in local opportunities for youngsters to socialise and keep fit.”

The national governing body for padel in Great Britain, the Lawn Tennis Association, has fully backed the plans.

In a supporting letter, the organisation said: “Following a recent mapping exercise, we have identified a clear demand for the sport in the area.”

They added: “The LTA is enthusiastic about the plans to add padel to the existing tennis offer at Victoria Park, and we hope that this will be taken into consideration during the review of the proposal.”

The facility will be fully accessible, featuring appropriate access paths, level surfacing, and wheelchair-friendly court access, the plans said.

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