Plans for padel courts at golf course submitted

The plans were submitted by Trent Lock Golf and Country Club

Plans to build padel courts at a golf course in Sawley have been submitted.

The proposal, submitted by Trent Lock Golf and Country Club, would see four padel courts built close to the existing practice greens and car park in Lock Lane.

Padel - a blend of tennis and squash - is typically played in doubles format on a walled court that is smaller than a tennis court, often on astro-turf.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) said two of the padel courts would include a retractable roof to shield players from the elements.

Two of the padel courts would include a retractable roof to shield players from the elements

Artist impressions of the courts show a blue surface and mesh fencing along with a number of overhead lights.

A report submitted to Erewash Borough Council with the application states the golf course is under new ownership and managers hope padel courts will bring in new customers, potentially from a broader demographic.

It said: "Padel, a fast-growing racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, has taken the world by storm, and its potential benefits for club membership, ancillary sporting activities, and the food and beverage arm of the business are significant.

"This exciting addition could create fresh opportunities for engagement, member retention, tourist attraction and crucial revenue generation across various facets of the club's operations."