Proposed Mayo padel courts facility first of its kind in region

A PROPOSED new sports facility - for padel - is being considered by council planners in Mayo.

The facility, in Ballina, with be the first of its kind for the region if given the go-ahead.

Approval for a change of use from existing light industrial to recreational/leisure facility has been sought from the council for a property at the IDA Industrial Estate in Bunree, Ballina.

A planning statement sets out that the unit is 1,591sqm of underutilised floor space with double height ceiling/roof, making it ideal for the proposed four padel courts.

Padel is the fastest growing sport in the word, with over 30 million players worldwide. It is a racquet sport that uses the same scoring rules as lawn tennis but is played on courts around a third smaller.

A fun and inclusive sport for all ages and all abilities, it can be played outdoors and indoors.

The report stated: “The unit at Bunree, being of double height, is ideally suited to cater for four indoor courts, which considering the west of Ireland weather will be a very positive amenity for residents and tourists.”

It will be one of the first of its kind in the northwest of Ireland, offering an unrivalled all weather, all-year round sports and leisure offering.

The proposed facility will provide for up to three on site staff members to operate it at any one time.

The proposed development will cater for four courts, with a maximum of 16 patrons at any one time. Maximum occupancy of the facility is circa 27, including eight spectators.

The developers feel the proposal will be a very positive leisure and recreational addition to the Ballina area, and is in keeping with the Bunree Road Industrial Estate’s historical provision of a facility of this type.