Understand
Rural padel courts in Bedfordshire approved after rural diversification appeal
Overview
Bedford Borough Council planning committee has unanimously approved retrospective planning permission for Podington Padel, a facility set up in a converted grain store on a farm in Bedfordshire. The project, which opened in January, had previously been refused in June over arguments it should be in the town centre. Farmer Andrew Mahon stated the alternative revenue stream is necessary to sustain the farm as growing wheat no longer covers bills, backed by 170 letters of support and over 1,000 members.
Key points
- Bedford Borough Council planning committee unanimously approved retrospective planning permission for Podington Padel.
- The facility is located in a converted grain store on a farm in Podington, Bedfordshire, and has been operating since January.
- Councillors had previously refused the application in June, arguing the courts should be sited in the town centre.
- Farmer Andrew Mahon stated that growing wheat does not pay bills and the padel courts provide a vital alternative revenue stream.
- The development received 170 letters of support and is backed by over 1,000 members and local parish councils.
- The National Farmers' Union highlighted that small and increasingly pressured farm businesses need to explore additional income opportunities.