Plans for two new padel tennis courts in Ripon have been given the go-ahead.
The proposal will see the new courts, plus canopies and flood lighting, built at Ripon Tennis Centre on Park Lane.
The centre will become the latest padel venue in the Harrogate district as the popularity of the sport increases.
Ripon Tennis Centre said in documents submitted to Harrogate Borough Council that the proposal would help to improve facilities.
It said:
“Ripon Tennis Centre are keen to provide these facilities as part of the ongoing improvement to the club which will be enjoyed by all age ranges and can be played on throughout the year.”
Boom in popularity
Padel tennis has seen a boom in popularity in recent years, including in the Harrogate district.
The sport is played between four players on reduced sized tennis courts. Competitors use paddle racquets and can bounce the ball off walls.
As well as the Ripon centre, a court is planned for Hornbeam Park which is earmarked for six dedicated courts.
Meanwhile, Harrogate Sports and Fitness Centre on Hookstone Wood Road saw an increase in demand for the sport during the first covid lockdown.
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The local boom has been reflected across the country.
With more than 6.000 padel players in the UK, according to the Lawn Tennis Association, the sport is one of the fastest growing in the country.
