A PRE-application hoping to transform a putting green in Bude into two pickleball courts has been given the green light.

The director of Bude Haven Recreation Ground has detailed plans which would see one of the putting greens repurposed to home one of the world’s fastest growing sports.

The pre-application (PA26/00483/PREAPP) explains: “We propose to change the use of the site from the current putting green, replacing it with two pickleball courts.

“The current area is closely cropped grass and is of limited natural benefit.

“The proposed courts would bee hard surfaced, stretching across a space of 120 feet by 30 feet, and would be bounded by a 2.75m high fence.”

While pickleball might be one of the fastest growing sports, for many it is still a mystery. The sport combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis. Played on a badminton-sized court with a slightly modified tennis net, two or four players use solid paddles to hit a hard ball over a net.

The pre-application argues that the current space is ‘under-used’, stating that the alternative mini-golf courses are more popular.

“National statistics illustrate the rapidly increasing popularity of pickleball as a game,” the application continues. “There are undoubted benefits to be gained by such usage, those benefits are to both physical health and general well-being.

“It is recognised as a game that is suitable for all ages and abilities. This will be a significant and beneficial addition to the recreational and sporting provision within Bude-Stratton.”

While a pre-application serves as an enquiry to seek the council’s views on a proposal, rather than a full application, the plans presented have been met with a positive response.

Commenting on the submission, the principal development officer said: “Based on the information supplied I can advise that the principle of the proposed pickleball courts in place of the putting green is considered to accord with planning policies and be a beneficial enhancement to Bude Recreation Ground. Therefore if a planning application is submitted it is likely to gain officer support.”