Galston Community Development Trust has lodged plans to install two community padel tennis courts on a former MUGA pitch, according to Ayrshire Live. The site, previously used for the Loudoun Super 7's, is located beside the Scottish Paintball Centre.
Proposal Details
The application, promoted by the trust, includes two outdoor padel courts with LED floodlighting, access paths, perimeter fencing, ancillary storage, and automated gate access with online booking infrastructure. Agents for the proposal are Advantage Sports Consultancy Ltd.
"The application is being promoted by Galston Community Development Trust as part of its objective to improve local sporting and recreational opportunities for the wider Irvine Valley community," states the design and access statement.
Sport's Growing Popularity
"Padel is widely recognised as one of the fastest growing participation sports in the UK and internationally," the statement adds. Governed in the UK through the LTA, padel combines elements of tennis and squash in an accessible, social format. It is suitable for all ages and abilities, easy to learn, inclusive, and family-friendly, contributing positively to physical and mental wellbeing.
Operating Hours and Benefits
If approved, the courts would operate daily from 8am to 10pm. The design and access statement notes: "The proposed two-court community padel facility represents an appropriate and sustainable form of recreational development on land adjacent to the A71 at Loudoun Estate, Galston. The proposal will create a high-quality and accessible community sports facility serving Galston and the wider Irvine Valley, addressing a clear gap in local sporting provision while delivering substantial health, social and economic benefits."
The development makes efficient use of an existing recreational site with good accessibility and limited amenity constraints. A decision on the proposal is expected in August.
