Padel tennis centre proposed for Moolap paddock

A padel tennis centre could be established in a paddock in Moolap. Here’s what you need to know about the up and coming sport.

Padel tennis centre proposed for Moolap.

A padel tennis centre would be established in a Moolap paddock under plans lodged with Geelong council.

Padel is a cross between tennis and squash, with up to four players on the court at a time, according to planning documents.

The sport was invented in Mexico and has grown rapidly in Europe.

“The applicant has leased a portion of the subject land in order to establish a new outdoor sporting facility,” the planing report said.

“They are excited to be a part of establishing this new sport of padel into Australia.

“It is intended to establish six courts with associated amenities and carparking.”

The site, at 215-235 Coppards Rd, is currently a vacant paddock.

The report said padel was a relatively new sport to Australia, with only a few clubs established at the time of writing.

“Padel games typically last between one and two hours and occasionally run longer, similar to a tennis match,” it said.

Padel tennis was invented in Mexico.

“The courts which measure 20 x 10m have a hardstanding base with clear screens enclosing each court having a maximum height of 4m.

“Stacked shipping containers at each end of the court will provide the anchor for the arched roof structures covering each court.”

There would be a maximum of 60 patrons, but this wouldonly be achieved during tournaments held about four times per year, the planning report said.

Thirty-six parking spaces are provided under the plans.

The centre’s proposed operating hours are 4pm to 10pm Monday to Wednesday, 9am to 10.30pm Thursday and Friday, and 9am to 10pm Saturday and Sunday.

The planning report said the proposed development of the recreation facility on a portion of the site (about 5250sq metres) would be created through a hardstand area and lightweight structures which ultimately meant the land could revert back to an agricultural use in the future if required.

“The use of the subject site as a restricted recreation facility will not create adverse impacts on the surrounding agricultural land from degradation of soil, water quality or land salinisation,” it said.

“The subject site has an area of just 3.64ha and as such is not suited for intensive agricultural use.

“The removal of approximately 5250 sqm from the subject land will not prevent the remaining land to continue to be used for haymaking- its primary function over recent years.”

The development is estimated to cost $500,000.

Originally published as Padel tennis centre proposed for Moolap paddock