Plans to build two padel courts at David Lloyd Leisure Club in Emersons Green, as well as floodlighting, have been approved by South Gloucestershire Council.
In November 2020, the Lawn Tennis Association was confirmed as the national governing body for the popular sport, which is played with a racquet.
As part of this initiative, David Lloyd says he is working across his entire portfolio to identify opportunities to retrofit padel courts.
The plan at Emersons Green is to replace an existing tennis court and outdoor children's playground with two padel courts. The club would retain three indoor tennis courts and an indoor soft play area for children.
Council planners said: “As one of the fastest growing sports in the UK, it is considered that there is a recognized need for padel facilities in South Gloucestershire… The provision of two padel courts would result in the loss of the existing tennis court and of the outdoor area.” Play area.”
They added: “Despite some objections from local residents to the loss of the outdoor play area, it would be inappropriate for planning to dictate that such a facility be retained at this private leisure club.”
Council officers pointed out that the Lyde Green Play Area and Emersons Green Village Park are nearby.
One of the new courts will have a rounded canopy to allow play in all weather conditions.
The floodlights will be installed at a height of six meters.
The council has imposed a condition on outdoor lighting, saying details must be submitted and approved before installation to prevent light from reaching key wildlife habitats.
The council said there would be no impact on surrounding homes.