Grant Pointer, managing director at Norfolk Premier Golf, said he and his dad are glad to see the diversification at the Blofield course.
Padel Point has opened its courts at Norfolk Premier Golf (Image: Newsquest) Grant said: “I was a little apprehensive but that’s because it’s a new venture for us but now that it’s here, all the hard work is done and we’ve got a good backing from people who are already interested.”
Alejandro Figueras Culebra, who supplied the courts and helped build them, said: “This sport is easy to learn and it’s a great way to meet people so I’m super happy this is finally happening.
Grant Pointer (left) and Alejandro Figueras Culebra (right) (Image: Newsquest) READ MORE: Is padel the fastest growing sport in Norwich?
“I can’t wait to see more people here.”
Plans for the courts were first lodged in November 2024 but planning permission was only granted in August this year.
Ahead of a decision being made, concerns were raised over the noise generated by players using the all-weather courts.
But Broadland and South Norfolk District Council planners ruled the impact would not be harmful.
Alejandro said: “The courts had to be suitable for where they were going to be.
“It was about listening to what the customer needed.”
Grant said: “To stop the noise, we considered the orientation of the courts but our location has also been helpful.”
James Palmer (left), who works at the club, gave the sport a try for the first time (Image: Newsquest) Looking ahead, Grant is keen to see the courts become a space for players to socialise and make the most of the new facility.
He said: “We’ve got a coach coming in, Grace, to help out with lessons, which will be free for beginners.
“I was also thinking of holding padel and prosecco events as well, ” he added.
The sport is played using bats (Image: Newsquest)
HOW DO YOU PLAY PADEL?
The sport – a hybrid between tennis and squash – is played using bats.
The ball, which looks similar to a tennis ball, is specifically designed to be slightly smaller, softer and has lower pressure to give it a slower bounce.
It’s usually played in doubles on an enclosed court, which is about one-third of the size of a tennis court.
The court is surrounded by walls of glass and metallic mash.
The ball can bounce off any wall but can only hit the turf once before being returned.
Points can be scored when the ball bounces twice in your opponent’s field.