The Gap Health & Racquet Club
Transforming tennis courts into innovative padel courts
Queensland

The Gap Health & Racquet Club’s vision was clear: integrate four modern padel courts into their facility to enhance their role as an inclusive sports hub. However, the challenge was multifaceted. The site had pre-existing tennis platforms that required significant modification to accommodate padel, a sport with distinct spatial and structural requirements.

The project also had to comply with Tennis Australia standards, coordinate with Brisbane City Council for any additional planning requirements and align with stakeholder input across the project phases. Ensuring seamless integration of the new courts into the Club’s layout and meeting functional standards required a thoughtful and adaptive approach to design. 

Site walkover before the beginning of the transformation

SPORTENG provided a comprehensive solution through its in-depth design and project management expertise: 

Project Inception & Planning   

SPORTENG conducted detailed project initiation meetings with The Gap Health & Racquet Club and key stakeholders to fully understand the project goals and any site constraints. 

A thorough review of the existing site data, including geotechnical, environmental, and service information, was carried out to ensure a solid foundation for the design process. SPORTENG addressed any information gaps, returning a refined design brief that outlined necessary adjustments. 

Design Coordination with Stakeholders 

In collaboration with Tennis Australia and the appointed padel enclosure supplier, SPORTENG developed an efficient layout and gained Tennis Australia’s approval on the functional layout plan. Working with Brisbane City Council, SPORTENG navigated potential planning requirements to ensure the project’s regulatory compliance. 

Detailed Design & Documentation 

SPORTENG provided concept and design development drawings, technical specifications, and opinion of probable costs (OPC) estimates. These documents were meticulously updated based on feedback, allowing the design to evolve seamlessly through each stage of development. 

The finalised documentation for tender and construction included drawings, technical specifications, and a bill of quantities to ensure clarity for contractors. 

Construction Inspection   
During the construction phase, SPORTENG responded to RFIs (Requests for Information) and participated in witness point inspections, ensuring the courts met both design and quality standards. 

Defects inspections at the project’s completion allowed SPORTENG to identify and address any remaining issues, delivering a final letter confirming compliance with the approved design. 

The new padel courts at The Gap Health & Racquet Club are set to mark a successful expansion of the Club’s sports offerings in 2025, introducing a sport that appeals to a broad demographic, from avid racquet sports enthusiasts to casual social players.

Expected to quickly become a community highlight, the courts will reinforce the Club’s mission to serve as an inclusive sports and fitness destination.

Through strategic planning and close collaboration with stakeholders, SPORTENG delivered a high-quality, functional space while elevating the Club's presence in the community.