The world's fastest-growing sport, padel, has been officially blocked from making a home in the historic city of Bath, after local councillors sided with residents who described the noise of the game as being akin to 'Chinese water torture'.
The Sound of Discontent
Despite a surge in popularity across the UK, with celebrities like David Beckham flocking to try the racquet sport, Bath and North East Somerset Council has rejected multiple planning applications for new courts. The most recent proposal, which sought to build four new padel courts at the Odd Down sports ground, was scrapped following vehement local opposition.
Leading the complaints was 77-year-old retired motor mechanic, Melvyn Caldwell, who expressed his delight at the council's decision. He stated, 'The sound of the ball coming off these solid racquets is like gunfire and it would seriously disturb people's peace. With four games going on at the same time, you'd think you were in a firefight.' Mr Caldwell also revealed he knew a woman who was allegedly driven from her home in Spain by the sound of nearby padel games.
A Clash of Perspectives
The council's planning committee concluded that the 'gunfire-like' noise would harm neighbours' mental health. This view was supported by the Planning Inspectorate after an appeal, with inspector Andrew Boughton noting the sport features 'noisier volleys and a faster cadence of ball impact compared to lawn tennis'.
However, the decision has left local enthusiasts and supporters deeply disappointed. Daniel Cano, 47, who learned to play padel in Spain, said the news was 'devastating' for him personally. 'There isn't a single place in Bath where you can play padel and that is frankly ridiculous,' he lamented.
Other residents argued for the health and social benefits of the sport. Retired nurse Marianne Pearson, 79, called the decision 'terrible', highlighting the importance of providing activities for young people. Similarly, 72-year-old retired teacher Christine Mottram branded the move 'very shortsighted', stating she would be happy to tolerate a little noise for the greater good of community exercise.
Is a Compromise Still Possible?
For now, padel players in Bath face a journey to Bristol or Corsham to play. The rejected courts were part of a larger plan to extend and refurbish the Odd Down sports ground. A revised application, which includes a gym and a mini cycle track but omits the padel courts, is currently awaiting a decision.
There is a glimmer of hope for a future resolution. Local councillor Steve Hedges, while opposed to the original plans, indicated that a compromise solution might be feasible. He suggested that situating the courts further away from homes and inside a structure with noise-absorption materials could potentially mitigate the concerns and allow the sport to finally come to Bath.
