PLANS have been put forward for a new padel tennis facility in Carlisle.
The proposal seeks to transform an outside storage area and overflow car park at Harraby Green Business Park, south of Gallery House, into the sports complex.
Submitted by H G Associates on behalf of Mr Harrison on November 11, the application aims to introduce what is often referred to as the 'fastest growing sport in the world' to Carlisle.
Padel is a doubles racket sport that blends elements of tennis and squash and is played on an enclosed court.
The plans detail the construction of three outdoor padel tennis courts, each measuring 20m by 10m.
Each court will be equipped with four floodlights on 6m high poles and enclosed by 3m toughened glass screen and 4m high mesh fencing.
If given the green light, the facility will also house two portable cabins providing a reception, toilet, and refreshments.
The proposed facility will employ two full-time staff members alongside the creation of 24 parking spaces.
"The proposed surface water drainage has been designed such that no additional flows will be discharged into the River Petteril and thereby increase flood risk on site, or downstream; and not cause harm to any protected species or their habitat and the ecological value of the River Petteril," the design and access statement reads.
"Based on the scale and nature of the use and the intended operating hours, the proposal may slightly affect the character of the area in terms of noise, but not to an extent which would materially change the quality of life for those living there.
"It is also the case that the proposal will find a more effective use of the land, compared to the existing purpose, located within the city where optimising the use of brownfield land is a policy objective."
If approved, the facility will operate Monday to Saturday, 8am to 8pm, and Sunday, 10.30am to 8pm.
According to the Padel Directory, there are currently no padel courts in Cumbria.
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