Rural rugby club plans padel court expansion

A rugby club has lodged plans to expand into the sport of padel by building courts at its ground.

Kirkby Lonsdale Rugby Club in Cumbria has applied to Westmorland and Furness Council for permission to build three padel courts at Underley Park.

In a document submitted to the council, club member Alan Cook claimed the project would "reinforce the rugby club's role as an important social and recreational asset".

Two courts would be covered, with one uncovered, and would operate between 06:00 and 23:00 with dedicated parking. A council consultation on the plans will run until 16 November.

Planning documents said the club sat in a rural setting on the edge of town, was regularly used by local teams and schools and acted as a "key community hub".

Cook said the town had recently faced "significant challenges" with a large fire in the town centre in December 2024 and the four-year closure beauty spot Ruskin View due to erosion fears.

"Against this backdrop, the proposed development represents a positive and proactive investment in the town's future," he said.

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