Exciting times for sports enthusiasts in Lincoln as there are plans afoot to convert an industrial unit on Whisby Road, North Hykeham, into a year-round indoor facility for padel tennis. This hybrid of tennis and squash, played within an enclosed court with a racket, has surged in popularity recently, particularly amongst professional footballers. In the UK alone, it’s estimated there are 130,000 padel tennis players – a remarkable rise from just 6,000 in 2019. The planning documents reveal an urgent need to meet the sport’s fast-growing demand, with Lincoln currently only boasting two similar facilities. The sport, known for its inclusivity, is suitable for mixed ages and abilities, requires minimal equipment, and offers numerous benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, muscle tone and mental wellbeing, not to mention its social aspect. The proposed centre will feature a 20 metre by 10 metre court, complete with changing and ball retrieval facilities. The application for this exciting development has been submitted through Lincs Design Consultancy and can be viewed on the North Kesteven District Council’s website.
This story was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original reporting by www.lincolnshirelive.co.uk.
