Attempts to bring padel to Bath have always been unsuccessful. Most recently, after neighbors complained about the noise of play, a plan to construct four courts at the Odd Down Sports Ground was abandoned. The concept was rejected by the Bath and North East Somerset Council’s planning committee, which claimed that the frequent sound of the ball hitting the walls would annoy the neighbors.
Concerns of the Residents
Rich residents who live close to the proposed location voiced their annoyance, calling the noise intolerable. One councillor went so far as to compare the noise to “Chinese water torture”, highlighting the intensity of opposition. Locals claimed that their quality of life and mental health will suffer as a result of the padel rallies’ continuous echoes.
The Position of the Council
The planning committee stressed that the advantages of implementing padel were overshadowed by the need to safeguard the welfare of the locals. Officials found that the sport’s noise levels were incompatible with the local environment and characterized the possible impact as “deafening.”
Greater Discussion
Padel has been more popular throughout the United Kingdom, as seen by the opening of new facilities in key cities such as Manchester and London. Fans and athletes are debating Bath’s decision to not embrace the sport, with many believing it to be unduly restrictive. While opponents are adamant about the noise, supporters contend that padel could help the community’s health, social life, and economy.
Bath stands out as a city that is currently opposing the padel development. Bath’s strict approach has produced a local hot spot between tradition, lifestyle issues, and the rising desire for contemporary sports, while other places keep expanding their facilities.
