An Ashby gym has unveiled plans for two state-of-the-art padel courts at its Smisby Road site.

Padel is becoming an increasingly popular activity - and Bluestone Fitness wants to be part of it.

The relatively new sport - with ex-Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp a keen player - is designed to offer a fun, accessible, and social way for people of all ages and abilities to stay active. 

But Bluestone says Ashby currently lacks the facilities to meet the growing demand for this exciting sport, which was only invented in 1969.

Padel is a racket sport that is similar to tennis and squash, but played on a smaller court with solid rackets and walls.

Bluestone owner Dan Ball told Ashby Nub News: "At Bluestone, we are passionate about creating spaces that encourage fitness, community, and social connection, and we believe these courts will be a fantastic addition to our town.

"Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in the UK, Our town deserves high-quality sporting spaces, and we want to make this happen—so we need your support.

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"These courts would be open to the entire community, not just our gym members. Whether you're looking to try something new, stay active, or meet new people, these courts will be a welcoming space for everyone in Ashby and the surrounding areas. 

"Our goal is to make padel as accessible as possible, providing a vibrant, inclusive, and much-needed sporting facility for the town."

Alongside the courts, Bluestone says it is committed to building a hub for health and wellbeing, incorporating its gym, class studios, padel, café, recovery facilities, physiotherapy, rehab, sports massage, and more. 

Dan adds: "These courts will enhance Ashby's sporting landscape, providing more opportunities for people to stay fit, socialise, and enjoy an active lifestyle. But we Need Your Support!

"For this project to become a reality, we need the council to process the application efficiently and recognise the importance of expanding Ashby's sporting facilities."

The gym has urged the Ashby public to support the application for the new facility, which has a planning reference of 25/00319/FUL - you can see that HERE.

Dan says you can:

• Write to the council in support of the application – every letter makes a difference.
• Sign a pro-forma letter at reception— they will be collected and send them in on your behalf.
• Spread the word—tell friends, family, and local groups about the plans

The Bluestone spokesperson added: "By coming together as a community, we can help ensure these courts get the green light and bring an exciting new sport to Ashby. Let's make this happen!"

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