A growing racket sport is set to arrive in a West Yorkshire location.

Calderdale Council’s planning department has approved modifications to a Grade II-listed structure in Sowerby Bridge, allowing for its conversion to accommodate a padel facility.

Originating in Mexico, padel blends elements of tennis and squash and has been gaining increased popularity throughout Europe, including within West Yorkshire and Calderdale. Recently, plans for four courts at an industrial unit elsewhere in the borough received approval, demonstrating rising interest in the sport.

Chris Hasling submitted the planning application to the council regarding changes to Bolton Brow Gallery located on Bolton Brow in the town.

The structure previously served as Bolton Brow Sunday School, designed by C.F.L. Horsfall and constructed during 1882-83.

According to planners reviewing the proposal, the plans involve transforming the existing lower ground floor hall of the property into an indoor padel court.

Conditions previously attached through a separate listed building consent application have been carried over to this full planning submission.

The applicant has indicated that establishing a padel court would create a sustainable revenue-generating function to assist with the ongoing upkeep of the building.

The planning department concluded the proposal was acceptable with certain conditions and gave its approval.