Plans to build padel courts on a field have been lodged by a leisure centre.
Places Leisure Eastleigh has unveiled proposals for four outdoor courts.
The leisure centre is keen to add to its existing offering, which includes four floodlight tennis courts – over-marked with three netball courts – three floodlit five-a-side areas, and one full size pitch.
The construction of four padel courts with an open sided canopy “represents an improvement to existing sporting and recreational facilities at the leisure centre”, developers said.
The proposed courts will measure at 20m long and 10m wide internally, surrounded by a canopy structure and access to the courts.
The courts will mainly be used for junior and adult social and competitive play, development and coaching for padel tennis.
In an application to Eastleigh Borough Council, developers said: “The benefits of the site and the proposed development derive largely from the sporting and recreational value rather than economic value.
“Nonetheless the facilities available provide an invaluable asset to the population who will be provided with inexpensive and improved recreational facilities immediately on the doorstep, and without presenting the need to travel.”
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They added: “Eastleigh Borough Council advocates the provision of facilities to improve the health and the quality of life within the community.
“This vision is consistent with central Government policy either expressed directly or through Sport England.
“The proposals perform well when assessed against all of these policy objectives promote and increase the sporting and recreation facilities at Eastleigh Leisure Centre.”
Following the submission of the application, a consultation with Eastleigh residents will take place to gather their views on the proposals.
Developers want to improve sporting and recreational facilities in the area by creating a “community asset” that is valued.
The padel courts will be available to use until 9pm Monday to Friday and until 8pm at the weekends.
A decision will be made by the council on September 18.
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