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# Major expansion planned for Ipswich Sports Club
- URL: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/major-expansion-planned-for-ipswich-sports-club/
- Published: 2025-01-29T12:07:35.000Z
- Updated: 2026-03-16T15:23:44.000Z
- Description: Ipswich Sports Club's plans for new padel courts and gym extension have been recommended for approval, with restricted hours to protect neighbours.
- Author: Oliver Rouane-Williams
- Tags: News, Grassroots Sport, Health, Fitness & Wellness, #article, Ipswich Sports Club, #Import 2026-03-16 14:45

**Why it matters:** The development would enhance sports facilities in Ipswich, adding four padel courts, one pickleball court, and a 110 sq.m. gym studio to the Henley Road site.

![Outdoor paddle and tennis courts at Ipswich Sports Club](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1735832629-ipswich-sports-club-tennis-and-paddle-courts-2.jpg)

Ipswich Sports Club's plans for new padel courts and gym extension have been recommended for approval Photo: Oliver Rouane-Williams (Ipswich.co.uk)

**The details:** The plans include:

- A 10-metre-high fabric roof canopy over the courts
- A glass and fenced enclosure around the extended court surface
- A small spectator stand with 29 seats and space for four wheelchairs
- Retrospective permission for shipping containers near the main building

**What they're saying:** The Ipswich Conservation and Design Panel has raised no objection, noting the established sports location and distance from housing would help manage potential impacts.

**Yes, but:** Local residents have expressed concerns about noise and light pollution. Three objections were received, with neighbours requesting restricted operating hours.

**What's happening:** In response to these concerns, officials recommended:

- Operating hours limited to 08:00-20:00
- Further planting to improve screening
- New native hedgerow planting to achieve an 11.58% biodiversity gain
- Details of lighting to be approved before installation

**The bottom line:** Planning officers concluded the development would be acceptable, balancing the benefits of enhanced sports facilities against local environmental and residential impacts.

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