Decision on Sussex golf club's controversial padel plans

The proposals for four padel courts, reception and lounge areas, and parking spaces on scrubland west of Mid Sussex Golf Club, Ditchling, were turned down by Lewes District Council on September 19.

The courts would have been floodlit, which was a point of contention for some nearby residents.

The proposed facility would have included 47 car parking spaces, and would have operated between 7am and 10pm.

Despite the sport's growing popularity, the proposal received a mixed response, generating 80 objections on the council's planning portal - including from Westmeston Parish Council, who described the plans as "wholly inappropriate".

The facility would have included four padel courts(Image: Mid Sussex Golf Club)

Many felt the courts, which can generate significant noise, do not belong in the peaceful countryside setting.

Susanne Pryde wrote: "The noise generated not just from the sport itself but also from the players' voices will be carried towards mine and my neighbours' properties in an alarming manner."

Deb Card added: "We enjoy the wildlife here, the quiet and the countryside.

"With four padel courts, all of this will be taken away, leaving a horrid view of glass courts and flood lighting."

Some residents were concerned about the impact of floodlighting(Image: Mid Sussex Golf Club)

However, the plans have also received 47 letters of public support, from those who felt that more access to the fast-growing game is needed.

Nick Schildkamp, a former teacher, highlighted the potential benefits for young people.

He said: "So many young people drift into crime and hang about in parks or on street corners.

"Padel is such an enjoyable game that can be played with family and friends, is affordable to all, and is obviously beneficial to the local economy.

"Surely a win-win for all concerned."

The proposed site for the padel facility(Image: Mid Sussex Golf Club)

Ultimately though, Lewes District Council planning officers ruled against the proposal, finding that this rural setting was not an appropriate site for the padel courts.

Planning officers wrote: "It is considered that the level and nature of the activity associated with the development is inconsistent with the rural setting of the site, additionally noting it would take place in an area which is highly valued for its tranquillity."

The plans can be viewed using the reference LW/24/0354.