Plans have been lodged for a town’s first padel court as the trendy sport continues to sweep across Kent.

The popular racquet game - described as a hybrid between tennis and squash - is now set to arrive in Tenterden under new proposals.

Pierre Edmonds has submitted the scheme for one outdoor court at the London Beach Hotel and Golf Club off the A28 Ashford Road in St Michaels.

Planning documents submitted on Mr Edmonds’ behalf by Place 54 Architects say the proposed floodlit facility will be a “much-needed” boost to the venue’s future and will be available to members, hotel guests and the public.

The London-based firm added: “The proposed padel court is a high-quality addition to the existing hotel, health club and spa.

“It is strategically situated to integrate with the hotel facilities, terrace and golf club shop.

“The proposed facility will support and sustain the hotel for the local economy and cater for the local need.

“The plans have been considered as part of the proposed London Beach masterplan, which sets out the vision and framework to assist in providing capital and revenue for its future function and longevity.”

Currently, the site, which measures in at about five acres, is used for car parking and the existing greenkeeper compound.

However, none of the 31 available spaces will be lost with the layout set to be altered as part of the application.

A previously approved scheme has also designated a new site for the greenkeeper compound.

No comments for or against have been registered on Ashford Borough Council’s (ABC) planning portal, and a decision is expected to be made later this year.

Currently, the nearest padel courts to Tenterden are in Ashford, after Harbledown-based racing driver Sam De Haan - son of former Saga owner and current Folkestone Harbour boss, Roger De Haan - opened Square One Padel last year.

“The proposed padel court is a high-quality addition to the existing hotel…”

The new venue filled a unit in Leacon Road on Brookfield Industrial Estate.

Earlier this month, former Love Island star Charlie Brake announced his plans to open padel courts in Canterbury.

A unit on Wincheap Industrial Estate will soon be home to three indoor double courts, a cafe, a pro shop, and shower and changing facilities.

It is hoped Brakepoint Padel Club will be open in early November.

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

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