Shay Given’s €4M Padel Centre in Kildare Denied by Council

URGENT UPDATE: Plans for a €4 million state-of-the-art padel centre by former Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given have been halted as the Kildare County Council just denied planning permission. The ambitious project, intended to feature nine championship-standard indoor padel courts and wellness facilities, faced a setback due to zoning regulations.

The proposed site, located within the grounds of The Club Hotel at Goffs, Co Kildare, was aimed at becoming the largest padel facility in Ireland. Given, partnering with businessman Declan Fagan under the brand Arena Padel, expressed excitement about the venture, stating, “We can’t wait to start welcoming players early next year.” However, council officials cited that the land’s zoning is strictly for equine-related developments, thus denying the application.

The council’s refusal comes despite no objections from the public, as they pointed to the zoning objective focused on “Equine Based Leisure Tourism and Enterprise.” The decision asserts that any development must align with equine activities, declaring that the proposed padel centre would contravene these regulations and set a precedent for non-equine uses on the land.

A report submitted with the planning application highlighted the potential creation of up to 30 jobs from the establishment of the padel centre. The council, however, remains steadfast in its decision, stating that the development does not fit the primary focus of activities intended for the Goffs site.

As of now, SFW Distribution Limited has the option to appeal the council’s decision with An Coimisiún Pleanála. The outcome of this appeal could determine the future of padel tennis in the region, impacting both local sports enthusiasts and the community at large.

This developing story highlights the intersection of sports, community development, and regulatory challenges. Stay tuned for further updates on Shay Given’s plans and potential next steps.