Petition launched to save Carvoeiro tennis club

A petition has been launched calling for the protection of the Carvoeiro Tennis & Padel Club as supporters express their concern about the future of the long-established sports venue.

The club, which has been part of the Carvoeiro community since 1985, is described by campaigners as an important social and sporting hub for residents, families, visitors and players from a range of nationalities. It features 10 tennis courts, four padel courts, a “fully equipped gym” and two fitness studios, a clubhouse, The Bungalow wellness and treatment centre, and a swimming pool.

“It is more than just a sports club. It is a meeting place for residents, families, tourists, children, and friends from many different nationalities. It brings people together, promotes health and wellbeing, and contributes to the unique character and international atmosphere of Carvoeiro,” they say.

However, the campaigners claim they have received “credible information suggesting that the land may potentially be redeveloped for luxury housing in the future”.

“At this moment, no official public plans have yet been presented. However, once formal procedures begin, communities are often left with very limited time to react,” they say. “That is why we believe it is important to act now.”

The petition states that the campaign is not opposed to development in principle but seeks to ensure that community facilities are not lost in the process.

“This petition is not against progress or development. We understand that Carvoeiro continues to grow and evolve. But we strongly believe that growth should not come at the expense of the community spaces that make Carvoeiro special in the first place,” the petitioners say.

Supporters argue that the closure of the club would result in the loss of an important social and sporting facility, reduce opportunities for residents and visitors to stay active, and remove a community space used by people of all ages.

The petition also raises broader concerns about development pressures in the area and calls on local authorities, stakeholders and decision-makers to take the club’s social value into account before any future decisions are made.

“By signing this petition, you show your support for protecting the Carvoeiro Tennis & Padel Club and preserving an important part of the community for future generations,” the supporters of the petition add.

The petition, which has received over 200 signatures, can be signed online.

Michael Bruxo

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.