Application Made to Extend Padel Tennis Operating Hours
Bid to reduce restrictions on floodlights at Rocks Lane
Picture: Rocks Lane Padel
July 24, 2025
An application (P/2025/2226) has been submitted to the London Borough of Hounslow requesting amendments to the planning conditions for padel tennis courts located at Rocks Lane Multi Sports Centre.
The proposal by Chris Warren seeks approval for two changes at the facility by Chiswick Common Road: the permanent retention of protective vinyl panels on the western padel courts, and the extension of operational hours for floodlights.
The original planning permission, granted in May 2022 under reference 00247/H/P8, approved the installation of four padel tennis courts with fencing, a retractable canopy, and lighting. Conditions attached to that permission currently limit the operating hours of the floodlights and require that the development be carried out strictly in accordance with specified drawings.
The applicant now proposes to vary Condition 2, which governs the approved drawings, in order to retain white vinyl panels that were added after the courts were constructed. These panels measure 2 metres wide by 3 metres high and were installed to shield players from poor weather conditions.
According to the application, the panels reduce exposure to rain, wind, and sunlight glare, making the court safer and improving player visibility. The panels have been designed to match existing structures and materials and are largely screened by trees around the site, minimising their visual impact.
In addition, permission is being sought to allow floodlights to operate from 7:00am to 11:00pm daily. Currently, lighting is permitted between 8:00am and 10:00pm on weekdays and 8:00am until 9:00pm on weekends. It is argued that extending the hours would accommodate growing demand from community members who wish to play outside of peak hours, particularly during darker winter periods. The floodlights themselves will remain unchanged and are designed to focus light directly onto the court, with minimal spill into surrounding areas.
The application emphasises the community value of the padel tennis courts, which are used by schools, charities, and professional athletes. Enhancing weather protection and increasing operating hours would enable year-round access and promote both physical and mental wellbeing for users.
It is stated that the amendments align with planning policies that support improved access to sport and recreational facilities. These include London Plan Policy S5, which encourages enhancement of sports provision in accessible locations, and Hounslow Local Plan policies promoting community infrastructure, health, and leisure. The application also contends that the changes are minor and will not adversely affect residential or environmental amenity.
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