Padel centre application on green belt could be rejected

OF THE 508 COMMENTS FROM MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC, 506 WERE IN FAVOUR OF THE SCHEME

- By JENNY SEYMOUR

PLANS for a new padel centre which has received overwhelming public support could be thrown out if councillors follow the recommendation of planning officers.

The planning application for land at Polhill Garden Centre, north of Sevenoaks, includes a 2,000-square metre building to house six indoor padel courts.

A second adjoining building would house “ancillary community facilities”, including a clubhouse, meeting rooms, a gym and children’s play area, while outside would be community gardens and a ‘learn to ride’ cycling course.

The applicants, Padel Up Limited and Polhill Garden Centre, said they want to create a “centre of excellence” for padel, the UK’s fastest gowing sport which is often described as a blend of tennis and squash.

The plans prompted 508 comments to the district council from members of the public, 506 of which were in favour of the scheme.