Sports dome variation at Leatherhead Leisure Centre, Fetcham, Leatherhead

What was proposed

The application was to vary conditions of an earlier permission for an indoor sports dome, allowing a differently shaped dome and removing the airdrone system.

“Variation of condition 2 and 6 of planning permission MO/2023/1445 for the construction of indoor sports facility comprising dome structure with associated parking and landscaping to allow a differently shaped dome and removal of the airdrone system.”

Minutes

An objector and the applicant's agent spoke

An objector representing local residents spoke against the application, and a planning consultant spoke on behalf of the applicant.

A stronger noise compliance condition

Members asked for a recheck of noise levels from the padel courts against the acoustic report, which officers agreed to add to the condition, while a suggestion to time the recheck for peak activity was considered too prescriptive.

“Questions were raised on whether the new Condition 7 as set out in the addendum could include a requirement for a recheck to ensure that the external noise levels from the padel courts complied with the limits outlined in the acoustic report, given its potential impact on nearby residents. Officers confirmed that Condition 7 could be revised to include a similar provision to Condition 6, requiring a letter of compliance within two months of installation.”

Minutes

The proposed shape of the building

Clarification was sought on the proposed shape of the building, and officers confirmed it would remain the same as the previously approved scheme.

“Clarification was sought on the proposed shape of the building. Officers clarified that it would remain the same as in the previously approved scheme.”

Minutes

Support based on the established principle of use

Members felt the principle of use had already been established through the previous approval and the current application mainly concerned design and impact, expressing support as a benefit to the local economy.

“Members went on to express the view that, while noise remained a concern, the principle of use had already been established through a previously approved application and that the current application primarily related to its design and impact. Support was then expressed for the proposal as it was considered to be a great asset to the local economy.”

Minutes

The revised noise condition

The revised condition required the dome to be installed to the specified acoustic report, with a compliance letter submitted within two months showing noise at least 5dBA below background, plus further mitigation if needed.

“The approved dome structure shall be installed in accordance with the technical details specified in AF Acoustics noise impact report 1949-AF-00001-02 dated March 2025 and within two months of installation a letter of compliance shall be submitted to and approved by the local planning authority by a suitably qualified person confirming by measurement and calculation that the performance criteria have been met and that as a minimum the noise rating at the nearest…”

Minutes