Wells Tennis Club is hoping to give its Athletic Ground home a proper upgrade, with plans submitted for a new pavilion in Rowdens Road.

NAPC Limited has applied to Somerset Council on behalf of the club to replace the existing building with a new single-storey pavilion.

The proposed building would include a main clubroom or seating area, toilets, ancillary rooms and refreshment or kitchen facilities. It would measure around 12.3 metres by 5.3 metres, giving the club a more useful base for players, coaches, visitors and match days.

Planning documents say the building would be put in place using ground screws, reducing the need for extensive excavation and limiting ground disturbance. The application describes the design as "simple, robust and functional" for its recreational setting.

For the club, the pavilion is about more than somewhere to sit between sets. The plans say the new building would support the day-to-day running of the courts and help the continued growth and accessibility of tennis at the Athletic Ground.

The application also says the scheme would improve shelter during poor weather.

The new facilities would also support junior coaching and safeguarding, as well as visiting teams and spectators. The plans say improved accessibility and inclusivity are part of the case for replacing the current pavilion.

Wells Tennis Club has also been fundraising for the project away from the planning process. It has raised more than £100,000 towards the new facilities, with a target of £150,000.

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The application is listed by Somerset Council under reference 2026/1196/FUL.

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