Permanent padel tennis courts are to be built in the city.

There will be three purpose built courts constructed at Withdean Sports Complex later this year.

The courts will replace the temporary padel tennis courts which have proven popular since being built in November 2021.

Padel Tennis, a tennis and squash hybrid, is one of the fastest growing sports in the world.

The Argus: Game4Padel chief executive Michael Gradon with company ambassador Annabel CroftGame4Padel chief executive Michael Gradon with company ambassador Annabel Croft

“The temporary court has been hugely popular with a diverse range of players, so we are delighted that three new permanent courts will soon be built by Game 4 Padel at Withdean Sports Complex,” said councillor Alan Robins, chairman of the culture, heritage, sport, tourism and economic committee.

“As a major sporting city, we are keen to provide opportunities for residents to participate in a wide range of activities at our leisure facilities and have the opportunities to take up new sports.

“And who knows, in future years we may be celebrating our own home grown Padel champions.”

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Brighton and Hove City Council said councillors unanimously approved plans to build the covered courts.

The new courts will be covered and have floodlights so people can play in the evening.

Played by four players in a glass-enclosed court, about one-third of the size of a tennis court, the rules are similar to tennis, although players serve underarm, making it much easier for beginners and people of all ages.

Celebrity fans and players include tennis players Andy Murray, Rafael Nadal, and Maria Sharapova.

There are currently 130 padel courts around Britain with more opening all the time and the Lawn Tennis Association, the governing body for the game in the UK, has forecast a 400 per cent growth in the number of courts by the end of this year.