A NEW indoor padel tennis facility with three courts could be set up in St Martin if plans submitted by the Jersey Padel Club are approved.
The proposal seeks to convert a vacant warehouse on Rue de la Vignette – next to the existing Farmers Cricket Club – into a padel academy.
The facility would include three indoor courts, changing rooms, exercise space and a pro shop.
Richard Brocken, founder of the Jersey Padel Club, which is based in St Clement, said the sport was gaining traction in Jersey and that facilities would increase the number of players.
“By housing the proposed courts indoors, playing will not be weather-reliant, allowing access throughout the year,” he added.
The application has already gained much support from the sporting community and the public.
In a statement, Jersey Sport said: “We believe that this application would be complementary and in line with the government’s published Inspiring an Active Jersey Strategy, promoting sport and physical activity in Jersey with a vision that Jersey will be a healthier, more productive and fairer society by being one of the most physically active populations in the world.
“The provision of high-quality, private-sector facilities into the sporting landscape is an important aspect of improving access to sports, especially so in a new and growing sport such as padel.”
Many others also highlighted the need for additional sporting facilities in the surrounding area.
Rosemary Binet said: “I am very supportive… creating a provision in an area of the Island that has very little.”
Meanwhile, John Wood saw it as “an opportunity in the east of the Island for one of the most popular sports currently being played”.
Others pointed to the health and wellbeing benefits of additional sporting facilities in the Island.
Neil Kelly said: “The more sports facilities, the better for the Island. This will be a great addition for the Island. Fitter people, less draw on medical facilities, and a happier population.”
