As a dedicated member of Glasgow Life, I frequent Scotstoun Leisure Centre three times per week, alongside many fellow tennis enthusiasts. The proposed conversion of two out of the eight existing indoor tennis courts into facilities for padel is concerning on multiple levels and affects a wide community of players who depend on these courts.

Scotstoun Leisure Centre currently provides an invaluable resource for tennis players in Scotland, offering a dedicated environment conducive to practice and enjoyment of the sport. Converting these courts into a multi-sport venue disrupts the unique environment tailored to tennis, as padel brings higher noise levels, which can directly impinge upon the focus and enjoyment of tennis players nearby.

The importance of indoor courts cannot be overstated, especially in Scotland, where weather conditions frequently compel players to opt for permanent indoor venues. Altering the makeup of the tennis hall would severely limit opportunities for players of all levels to engage in their sport year-round.

Furthermore, tennis has a storied history and is fundamental to our local sporting culture, serving individuals both young and old, with programmes that foster community health and wellbeing. Padel, while exciting and emerging, already has opportunities for development in other venues without displacing existing tennis facilities.

Thus, we urge Glasgow Life to carefully reconsider this decision, taking into account the long-term benefits of maintaining a dedicated tennis facility. Let us explore alternative solutions that support both sports without sacrificing what the Scotstoun Leisure Centre has become to so many tennis players.

Please support this petition to retain the dedicated indoor tennis spaces at Scotstoun, ensuring continued access to world-class tennis facilities for all who call this sporting community home. Sign this petition to make your voice heard and safeguard our beloved tennis courts.