Padel court plans unveiled near Borders College campus in Galashiels
Plans have been unveiled to turn a former builder’s yard in Galashiels into a modern covered padel tennis court facility.
The proposed development – opposite TriFitness at Netherdale - would be operated by Live Borders and integrated with the existing gym, allowing users to access changing and shower facilities.
According to the planning application lodged with Scottish Borders Council, the courts would be constructed to Lawn Tennis Association specifications and would operate through an automated pay-to-play system, providing a managed and accessible recreational facility for the local community.
The applicant, Waukrigg Development Company Limited, is an established property developer and landlord with over 40 years of active involvement in the Borders commercial property market.
A report from Aitken Turnbull Architects states: “The submitted marketing evidence demonstrates that there has been no substantive interest from industrial or business operators despite formal marketing, cross-marketing and the applicant’s own direct exposure to the local commercial property market.
“The only meaningful interest has come from leisure operators, including Live Borders, which reflects both the changing character of Netherdale and the site’s suitability for the proposed use.
“In this context, the proposed change of use is considered to be justified. It would not undermine the practical availability of business and industrial land locally, but would instead secure the beneficial redevelopment of a long-vacant and degraded site for a use that delivers clear community, health, well-being and regeneration benefits.”
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The site would comprise of four covered padel courts, together with associated access, parking, cycle parking, seating, landscaping, lighting, bin storage and ancillary operational areas.
The report adds: “Overall, the proposal would result in a significant visual improvement when compared with the current vacant former builder’s yard. It would replace an underused site with a coherent, landscaped and professionally managed sports facility.”
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