URL: https://democracy.lichfielddc.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=772

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member Decision

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: Microsports has been commissioned by Lichfield District Council and Lichfield West Midlands Traded Services (LWMTS) to lead the delivery of three new Padel Tennis Courts at Beacon Park, as part of the wider leisure development strategy.   This report seeks final approval for the installation of the courts which will provide essential amenities and infrastructure for the facility’s operation and long-term sustainability.   Padel is among the fastest-growing sports in the UK, offering accessible and inclusive participation opportunities for a broad demographic. The proposed development will modernise the Council’s leisure portfolio, attract new users, and ensure the long-term financial and operational sustainability of the Beacon Park site.   All planning permissions, procurement activities, and stakeholder consultations have been completed. The project is now ready to proceed to the delivery phase. It will make a significant contribution to several key priorities outlined in the Council’s Local Plan, including:   •Active Communities – by increasing participation in sport and physical activity. •Green Communities – through the repurposing of underused land in a flood-risk zone, and creation of the Habitat Bank and Mini Nature Reserve. •Safer Communities – via increased visibility, new lighting, CCTV, and infrastructure improvements to improve park security.

Content: Microsports has been commissioned by Lichfield District Council and Lichfield West Midlands Traded Services (LWMTS) to lead the delivery of three new Padel Tennis Courts at Beacon Park, as part of the wider leisure development strategy.   This report seeks final approval for the installation of the courts which will provide essential amenities and infrastructure for the facility’s operation and long-term sustainability.   Padel is among the fastest-growing sports in the UK, offering accessible and inclusive participation opportunities for a broad demographic. The proposed development will modernise the Council’s leisure portfolio, attract new users, and ensure the long-term financial and operational sustainability of the Beacon Park site.   All planning permissions, procurement activities, and stakeholder consultations have been completed. The project is now ready to proceed to the delivery phase. It will make a significant contribution to several key priorities outlined in the Council’s Local Plan, including:   •Active Communities – by increasing participation in sport and physical activity. •Green Communities – through the repurposing of underused land in a flood-risk zone, and creation of the Habitat Bank and Mini Nature Reserve. •Safer Communities – via increased visibility, new lighting, CCTV, and infrastructure improvements to improve park security. The Cabinet Member for Leisure & Major Projects hereby approved the award of contract for the installation of three new padel tennis courts at a total cost of £448,290.   The contract will be awarded to Fosse Contracts Limited, the successful bidder following a competitive procurement process. The contractor will be formally instructed to proceed, pending a pre-commencement meeting with all relevant stakeholders to finalise logistical arrangements, site access protocols, and a comprehensive community communications plan.

Date of Decision: September 19, 2025