Plans have been submitted for a new indoor padel courts facility at a Sunderland farm.

The city council’s planning department has received an application for land at Offerton Grange Farm, near the A19 and Hastings Hill roundabout.

Plans are seeking permission for the construction of a “purpose- built facility designed specifically for padel” with six courts, a small café space, mezzanine floor and seating area and associated parking.

The application is the latest plan submitted on Wearside to facilitate the booming racquet sport, which is played with specialist equipment in enclosed courts, with walls also used in play.

Plans for new padel courts in Sunderland have been unveiled.

placeholder image — Plans for new padel courts in Sunderland have been unveiled.

They include separate plans on land at Rainton Bridge Business Park, near Houghton-le-Spring.

Supporting documents submitted to council officials state plans aim to “future-proof” an “established, family-run farm business” on the site to “ensure its long-term viability”.

A “farm diversification and evidence of demand statement” from applicants said “it is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain the farm through agricultural activities alone” and that there is a “clear need to look beyond agriculture for diversification opportunities”.

It was noted that the padel facility plan represents a “natural and necessary progression for the business” and would “help to support the continued operation of the family farm, safeguard its future and ensure it can be passed on to future generations”.

Those behind the scheme said the site proposed for the padel facility is currently used for the storage of farm machinery and “does not form part of the core productive agricultural land”.

The supporting statement adds: “There has already been clear informal interest in the proposed development from within the local community and existing networks, further supporting the need for increased provision in this location.

“The proposed development will directly respond to this identified shortfall by introducing additional courts within a well-connected and accessible location.

“This will significantly improve local access to padel, reduce pressure on existing facilities and support the continued growth of the sport within the North East.

“In addition to supporting the long-term viability of the farm, the proposal will also deliver wider benefits including increased local activity, additional footfall and spend within the area, and the provision of a new social and recreational facility for the community.”

A decision on the padel facility plan is expected following a consultation exercise.