September 3, 2026
Biodiversity Net Gain, Commercial and Leisure, Ecology, Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Landscape Architecture
Nicholas Pearson Associates (NPA) is pleased to have helped secure planning permission for Smash Padel’s new facility in Bathampton.
The approved development will provide five covered padel courts and associated facilities. The site is located within the Cotswold National Landscape and close to the Bath and Bradford-on-Avon Special Area of Conservation (SAC). The proposals attracted significant public interest and strong community support, reflecting growing demand for padel facilities in the Bath area.
Our Role
NPA provided a comprehensive package of landscape and ecological consultancy services throughout the planning process, including:
- Early development and planning advice
- Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA)
- Ecological survey and assessment
- Landscape design
- Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessment
NPA worked closely with the applicant and wider consultant team from an early stage. This helped guide the evolution of the proposals and ensured they responded appropriately to the opportunities and constraints of the site.
Responding to a Sensitive Landscape Setting
Given the site’s location within the nationally protected Cotswold National Landscape, careful consideration was required to understand and address potential landscape and visual effects.
Through detailed assessment and design input, NPA helped shape proposals that minimise visual impacts. Careful siting and landscape design measures helped integrate the development into its surroundings.
NPA also undertook ecological surveys and assessments to inform the design and planning process. Particular consideration was given to avoiding and minimising light spill onto surrounding habitats. These habitats are used by bats associated with the nearby Bath and Bradford-on-Avon Bats SAC for commuting and foraging. The proposals incorporate measures to avoid, reduce and mitigate other potential ecological effects. They also deliver the required Biodiversity Net Gain.
Securing Bathampton Padel Planning Permission
The successful outcome demonstrates how new recreational development can be delivered within environmentally sensitive locations. Early assessment, collaborative design and a robust evidence base were key to achieving this result. By integrating landscape and ecological considerations throughout the project, the team secured Bathampton Padel planning permission. The approved scheme respects the site’s valued landscape and environmental setting.
NPA is delighted to have contributed to this successful result and congratulates Smash Padel and the wider project team on securing planning permission. We look forward to seeing the new facility provide an exciting sporting destination for the local community.
