Co-op Academy Florence MacWilliams
Carrick Construction was appointed by Bowmer & Kirkland to deliver the specialist sports pitch...
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Key Facts:
- Groundswork and infrastructure
- Padel court installation
- Drainage installation
Project Summary
The rapid growth of padel across the UK has created demand for high-quality courts, capable of supporting heavy usage while maintaining consistent playing performance. East Glos Club, one of the South West’s most established racquet sports venues, commissioned the construction of four new outdoor padel courts to expand its facilities and meet growing community demand.
Carrick Construction was appointed to deliver the groundworks and infrastructure for the project, working alongside specialist partners to construct three doubles courts and one singles court, the first singles padel court in Gloucestershire.
The development was designed to integrate seamlessly with the club’s existing facilities while prioritising durability, drainage performance and long-term maintenance efficiency. The courts were built in accordance with Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) and SAPCA guidance, ensuring they meet the standards required for competitive and recreational play.
The project included precision groundworks, sub-base construction, drainage installation and associated civil works to support the padel court structures, fencing and surrounding access areas.
Challenges
The site presented several factors for additional consideration due to its location within an established sports club. The new courts needed to be integrated within the existing footprint of the club while maintaining access and minimising disruption to members using other facilities.
Ground conditions also required careful management. Surface water drainage was identified as a key factor during the planning phase, with the potential for water accumulation impacting surface performance if not properly addressed.
Achieving precise surface tolerances was another important requirement. Padel courts demand accurate levels and stable foundations to ensure consistent ball bounce, safe play and long-term durability.
Solution
Carrick Construction implemented a detailed ground engineering approach to ensure the courts were built on a stable and durable platform.
Initial works included excavation and laser-guided grading of the subgrade to achieve millimetre-level accuracy across the court footprint. Engineered aggregate layers were then installed and compacted to create a stable structural base capable of supporting the courts and associated infrastructure.
Perimeter concrete kerbing and edge restraints were installed to provide long-term stability for fencing systems, pathways and surrounding features.
To manage surface water effectively, Carrick worked alongside STRI Group company The Environmental Protection Group to design and install a soakaway drainage system connected to the site’s wider drainage network. This ensured excess groundwater could be safely managed, protecting both the playing surfaces and surrounding facilities.
Throughout construction, close co-ordination with the club and project partners ensured the build programme remained efficient and aligned with operational requirements.
The Results
The new padel courts have quickly become a popular addition to the East Glos facility.
The development has significantly increased the club’s capacity to meet the growing demand for padel in the region, while the introduction of Gloucestershire’s first singles padel court adds a unique training and playing opportunity for members and visitors.
High levels of utilisation since opening highlight the value of technically sound construction and robust ground engineering in sports facility development.
Beyond the technical achievement, the project has delivered important social benefits for the local community. The courts have helped widen participation in racquet sports by providing accessible facilities suitable for players of all ages and abilities.
Carrick Construction successfully delivered the groundworks, sub-base construction, drainage infrastructure and associated civil works required to support the courts, ensuring a durable and high-performing facility that will serve the club and the wider Cheltenham community for years to come.
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