Plans approved for five padel courts at former Perthshire private school

Plans have been approved to build five new padel courts at a former Perthshire private school.

Tiger Padel wants to replace three tennis courts in Kilgraston School’s grounds with padel facilities.

A canopy is also included in the plans to ensure the padel courts can be used year-round.

Tiger Padel aims to support the Bridge of Earn community and repurpose unused sports resources.

Padel is a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis and squash.

Padel courts set to be built at former Perthshire private school

A supporting statement on the application said: “The proposed development of five padel courts (three doubles and two singles) on the site of the existing tennis courts at the former Kilgraston School represents a thoughtful and sustainable enhancement to the site’s established sporting amenities.

“By repurposing the existing tennis court footprint into a high-quality, publicly accessible
sports facility, the scheme addresses the growing demand for Padel while delivering recreational benefits to the local community.

“The design responds to the rural and historic character of the site, prioritising functionality, durability, and visual cohesion through the careful selection of materials.”

In 2024, the school closed due to an £860,000 black hole in its finances.

The former private boarding school later became the focus of false rumours that it was being turned into asylum seeker accommodation.

Kilgraston went to auction last year with a starting price of £1.6m and was snapped up by Salford-based developer Lumara Capital Ltd.

The facilities are now being rented out to interested parties.

Jamie Robertson runs Young Talent Swim School, which opened in Kilgraston swimming pool at Christmas last year.

Padel courts are popping up across Tayside, with a new facility at Crieff Hydro and plans for clubs in Perth and Dundee.