Harrogate Rugby Club unveils ambitious plans for clubhouse extension and four new padel courts
Harrogate Rugby Club has unveiled ambitious plans to transform its facilities and is inviting residents to have their say at a public consultation event this month.
The proposals include a major extension to the clubhouse, upgraded facilities, four new covered padel courts and improvements to parking arrangements at the Rudding Lane site.
A public consultation event will take place at the club on Wednesday, September 30, from 3pm until 7pm, giving people the opportunity to view the proposals, meet the project team and ask questions.
The existing two-storey clubhouse currently provides around 800 square metres of floorspace.
Under the proposals, a new single-storey extension of approximately 710 square metres would be added to create enhanced facilities for both the club and the wider community.
Plans show a new main entrance opening into a larger clubroom and lounge, alongside an extended bar and reception area designed to support the club's day-to-day activities and larger events.
A large function room would also be created at the rear of the building, providing space for a range of club and community uses.
The redevelopment would also include a new catering kitchen, additional offices and meeting rooms, a new gym with access to the existing changing facilities, and two extra changing rooms created by converting the current gym and weights room.
The first floor would also be reconfigured to provide an upgraded gym, a larger members' lounge and bar, an additional office, an expanded kitchen and improved function space.
As part of the proposals, four covered padel courts would be constructed to the north of the clubhouse towards the rear of the site.
Each court would measure approximately 20 metres by 10 metres and feature a synthetic turf playing surface enclosed by a combination of glass walls and mesh panels.
The courts would be fully accessible to wheelchair users and fitted with floodlighting to allow play during periods of reduced daylight, with the lighting designed to minimise the impact on neighbouring woodland and wildlife.
A spokesperson at Harrogate Rugby Club said: “We’re inviting local residents to come along and have their say on the proposed plans for Harrogate Rugby Club, including a clubhouse extension, members’ gym and four new padel courts.
“Drop in at any point during the event to view the proposals, meet the project team and ask any questions – we’d love to hear your thoughts.”
Comments on the plans can be submitted until Friday, October 23.
Anyone unable to attend the consultation event can email [email protected] with their feedback or any questions.
For more information, visit https://www.harrogaterufc-consultation.co.uk/