Plans have been lodged for new padel courts, as the trendy sport continues to sweep across Kent.

Often described as a hybrid between tennis and squash, padel has been gaining popularity in the past year with new play areas opening all over the county.

Now Canterbury is getting in on the game as a bid for three “all weather” courts at The King’s School Recreation Centre is set to go before city planners.

The proposed development includes the erection of a steel-framed canopy structure on an existing hard surfaced area used for tennis at the St Stephen’s Road site.

In documents submitted to Canterbury City Council, planning consultancy company Hume says the facilities will be open to the public and operated via an online booking system.

“The objective of the scheme is to encourage participation in an emerging sport that is extremely popular but requires specialist playing courts that are not available in Canterbury which is a barrier to participation.

“This financial investment into the district will support the development of a new and growing sport, encouraging healthy and active lifestyles for the district’s residents.”

Interest in padel in Kent has surged in 2024.

A “dull and unwanted” tennis court in Victoria Park, Deal, was transformed into a spot for padel earlier this year, while Brookfield Industrial Estate in Ashford opened a site in September.

And just weeks ago, Whitstable Rugby Club in Chestfield welcomed padel players for the first time.

The game, which started in Mexico in 1969, became popular throughout South America and Spain and has now taken Britain by storm with huge demand for memberships of clubs.

The game is similar to squash - played with a smaller racket and a lighter-weight ball that must bounce first before hitting surrounding walls.

Normally played in doubles, it is considered less intense than conventional tennis and is suitable for all age groups.

Plans for the new courts in Canterbury were submitted to council’s planning team on November 27.

A decision on whether the project can go ahead is expected in the coming months.