Padel courts plan to boost rugby club finances

A rugby club is planning to build four padel courts on its land to increase income and bring the fast-growing sport to Keighley.

If plans are approved by Bradford Council, the four courts would be built within the grounds of Keighley RUFC at Rose Cottage.

Set up as a joint venture between the rugby club and its chairman Russ Gibson, Aireplay Padel would be a "modern, popular and accessible sporting facility", the club said.

Gibson said the courts would create a "sustainable future for the rugby club", which is facing increased financial pressures from rising energy costs, maintenance, insurance and compliance.

"Keighley RUFC has been part of the local community for generations, and our responsibility now is to make sure it remains strong for the generations that follow," he said.

"The costs of running an amateur sports club continue to rise and we have to be proactive in finding ways to secure the club financially, while still protecting what makes Keighley RUFC special."

The club said rugby would "remain at the heart of Keighley RUFC" and any income from the padel business would be reinvested into the club, its facilities, teams and the wider community.

"This has the potential to support the club for many years to come and help ensure Keighley RUFC remains financially sustainable for future generations," it said.

According to the planning application, the courts would be built on underused ground to the side of an existing playing pitch and car park.

Access to the site would remain unchanged through the main gates and no extra parking would be provided, as it already has space for more than 200 cars.

It is proposed the club would be open from 07:00 to 22:00 Monday to Sunday, and Bank Holidays.

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