Plans for Edenderry padel courts revealed

By Rebekah O'Reilly

Plans for new padel courts at a site adjoining Mangan's Service Station on Edenderry's Dublin Road have been revealed.

An application for planning permission for the sporting facility was made by Ronnie McArdle on behalf of Ciaran Mangan of Mangan's Service Station on Friday, December 19.

The plans include the demolition of two existing commercial units and partial demolition and modifications to one existing commercial unit.

The construction of the sport facility building, which will enclose three padel courts and an entrance lobby, also includes a separate WC Block, one high power electric vehicle charging unit, two vehicle charging bays and associated electric vehicle infrastructure, signage elements, site lighting, drainage and all other associated site development works.

The applicant has been engaging with a Spanish modular covering manufacturer Okatent that specialises in hanger structures and also Padel enclosures in Spain and Europe.

The existing buildings and dense trees and hedgerows currently act as a buffer between current residential and commercial lands. As per the Civil Engineer’s site plans, no material changes are proposed to these buffers but some additional soft landscaping areas are proposed.

Padel is known as a social and accessible sport, combining elements of squash and tennis. One of its key differences from tennis is that the ball is always in play, and it is generally easier to pick up.

The courts are smaller than tennis courts and are fully enclosed, allowing the ball to bounce, similar to squash. The sport has exploded in popularity over the past 12 months, with courts popping up across Ireland.

The plans are in the pre-approval stage, and there is currently no date set for approval.