What is the issue with the David Lloyd gym's padel courts in Harrogate?

The residents living near the David Lloyd gym in Harrogate have been complaining about the noise from the newly constructed outdoor padel courts, which they say has "ruined" their peaceful lives.

What action is the local council taking regarding the padel court noise?

The North Yorkshire Council has launched an investigation into the alleged noise nuisance and has served a noise abatement notice on the David Lloyd Clubs business. The council is considering further enforcement action if the issue is not resolved.

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Padel Pandemonium: Residents Revolt Over Noisy Outdoor Courts

Q: How have the residents described the noise from the padel courts?

Residents have described the sounds from the padel courts as akin to "rifle-fire shots," especially as the players' skill levels have improved. One neighbor even said her dog "shot off" thinking there was a firecracker going off.

10 Oct

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Summary

Residents complain about noise from outdoor padel courts near their homes
Padel courts "ruined" some neighbors' lives, according to local residents' association
Noise from the sport described as "rifle-fire shots" and like "being in the middle of a noisy pub"

Padel Pandemonium: Residents Revolt Over Noisy Outdoor Courts

In October 2025, residents living near the David Lloyd gym in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, have been grappling with a noisy new addition to their neighborhood – outdoor padel courts. Since the courts were constructed in December 2023, locals have been plagued by noise pollution, with some saying it has "ruined" their lives.

The North Yorkshire Council had previously rejected a retrospective planning application for the padel courts, but the facility has continued to operate, much to the dismay of the surrounding community. Residents have described the sounds from the sport as akin to "rifle-fire shots," especially as the players' skill levels have improved. One neighbor, Diane Andrews, even said her dog "shot off" thinking there was a firecracker going off.