Mid Devon is set to become a centre for one the UK’s fastest growing sports, with the creation of a number of padel courts in the district.

Active Mid Devon is considering the options available to support the delivery of up to eight padel courts at Active Tiverton (Exe Valley), and the potential for two padel courts, or one padel court and one pickleball court, at Active Crediton (Lords Meadow).

The Tiverton padel courts would replace the existing tennis courts, which will be relocated to Amory Park.

The Council has already been in talks with Tiverton Tennis Club, which uses the existing facilities, and the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), who have both shown support for the project.

Padel is a fast-growing racquet sport that blends elements of tennis and squash and is played on an enclosed court, about one-third the size of a tennis court, with glass or solid Perspex walls that allow the ball to rebound. Players use solid paddles and a low-compression tennis ball, typically in doubles format. The game is easy to learn, highly sociable, and appeals to all ages and skill levels, which has driven its popularity worldwide.

The proposal has been supported by the Council’s Cabinet and now further work, including seeking planning permission, needs to take place to progress the project.

Investment in facilities at Amory Park would transform the large, underused hard standing within the park to three new tennis courts, which could become a base for Tiverton Tennis Club and potentially become part of the LTA’s Club Spark online booking system. New fencing, lighting and upgrades to the existing pavilion are also planned as part of the improvement works.

Councillor Josh Wright, Cabinet Member for Service Delivery and Continuous Improvement, said:

“This really is a fantastic opportunity to improve the provision of racquet sports in Mid Devon and it is great to be at the forefront of bringing such a popular sport to our area.”

George Bridgeman, Chairman of Tiverton Tennis Club, said:

“Early meetings and conversations have all been positive, and as a tennis club we see this as a great opportunity to modernise the tennis facilities in the town. The club has enjoyed being based at the leisure centre for over 20 years, but with the courts now in real need of a refresh, we are excited to be working closely with the Council to help bring new, modern facilities to our members and the wider community. Many of our tennis club members are also keen to try padel, so it is great news that this fast-growing sport is coming to Tiverton.”