The tennis courts constructed for the Olympic and Paralympic Games in London 2012 are set to be replaced by padel courts, a decision that has angered tennis enthusiasts.

Plans are underway to transform four indoor tennis courts at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre in northeastern London into nine courts for this emerging racquet sport, which combines elements of tennis and squash.

Shawn Dawson, the chief executive of the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, which oversees the centre, asserted that these changes are vital.

A petition opposing the project has gathered over 1,500 signatures.

Dawson remarked, “It is important that these incredible public assets, these Olympic venues, remain relevant to a broader audience. We are responding to current trends… Thirteen years have passed since the Games, and we must ensure that these legacy facilities continue to serve the community.”

However, the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) described the proposal as “particularly disappointing.”

The LTA stated, “The LTA and Tennis Foundation contributed £500,000 to the original tennis facility, which represents an important legacy from the London 2012 Paralympics. The courts remain highly utilized, with over 700 children participating in our programs and about 100,000 individuals using the facilities annually, alongside a successful disability program and collaborations with local schools.”

Tennis player Kimberly Schreiber expressed her discontent, calling the move an “insult.”

She stated, “What is troubling is that the decision to replace our indoor courts was made without consulting the public, which is a disservice to the vibrant and diverse community this tennis centre supports.”

Omosuyi Fred-Omojole remarked, “I understand the desire to capitalize on the growing popularity of padel, which certainly makes financial sense, but this should not come at the cost of the thriving indoor tennis community.”

Wheelchair athlete Ivan Vershigora mentioned that wheelchair tennis is the highlight of his week.

“I’m quite saddened by the conversion of the indoor courts to padel, as tennis is such an enjoyable sport, especially for those of us in wheelchairs.”

He noted that playing outdoors during winter could be challenging due to inclement weather, but he expressed an openness to trying padel.

The facilities have helped 10-year-old Isaac achieve national championship standards.

He commented, “The indoor courts are vital since it is hard to practice in the winter due to the rain and cold.”

The venue also boasts six outdoor tennis courts that will remain unaffected by these changes.

Dawson stated that by repurposing the indoor courts for padel, the centre—which also includes two hockey pitches—will cater to a larger number of people.

“We will offer three sports instead of two, allowing more individuals to stay active, become well, and engage socially,” he explained.