Five-court padel centre planned for Plumpton Racecourse

Monday, 3 August 2026 16:00

By Madison Fox

Plans for a new indoor padel centre at Plumpton Racecourse are set to go before councillors this week.

The proposed sports centre would be built on the site of an existing driver-training school at the racecourse in Ashurst Lane, Plumpton. Revised plans include five padel courts contained inside an enclosed building, together with spectator seating and office and storage space. The scheme would also include landscaping and measures intended to limit the impact of noise and lighting on nearby homes.

Padel is a racket sport which combines elements of tennis and squash and is usually played by four people on a smaller, enclosed court.

The proposals were originally submitted as a six-court development, with four indoor and two outdoor courts, but were later amended. Lewes District Council received 25 objections and 35 messages of support during its consultation. Concerns raised by objectors included additional traffic, noise, light pollution and the potential effect of the development on the surrounding countryside and nearby residents. Supporters said the centre would provide a new sporting facility, encourage people to exercise and bring further visitors and investment to the area.

In their report, planning officers concluded that the health, community and economic benefits of the development would outweigh the concerns raised. They have recommended that planning permission should be granted, subject to a number of conditions.

Members of Lewes District Council’s Planning Applications Committee are due to consider the proposals on Wednesday, 5 August.

A final decision has not yet been made.

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