“Fastest growing sport in the world” is coming to Warrington

A GAME which is said to be the fastest-growing sport in the world is to be introduced in Warrington.

Grappenhall Village Lawn Tennis Club has won planning permission for two padel courts alongside its existing eight tennis courts off Stockton Lane, Grappenhall.

Padel is based on tennis, with a bit of squash thrown in. It is governed by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) and has been recognised by Sport England. It has been described as the fastest-growing sport in the world – but it is different to the game known as “paddle tennis” which is played in the United States and Canada. The floodlit courts are about 25 per cent smaller than tennis courts.

Originally, the club intended the courts would be covered by a canopy so that rain would not interfere with play. But the canopy plan has been dropped to ensure the game retains its status as an outdoor sports acceptable in the Green Belt.

Members and non-members will be able to use the courts and the club plans to offer local schools opportunities for children to try the game.
Padel is easy to learn and is popular with both women and men of all ages. It is very sociable as it is played as doubles and it contributes to a healthy lifestyle.
Planning officers say the low-energy LED floodlights will be controlled so they are only on when the courts are in use and will be unlikely to have any impact on the nearest houses which are 135m away.