Forum: Have consistent rules for pickleball on outdoor courts

At 55, I found a sport that keeps me active, healthy, and socially connected: pickleball. It is easy to learn, safe for seniors, and fun for all ages – one of the few sports where grandparents and grandchildren can play together.

Yet just as pickleball is growing in popularity, players are hitting roadblocks. Some town councils have banned the sport from outdoor badminton courts, citing safety, noise, and damage concerns. What is most frustrating is the inconsistency of the rules. At Block 642 Punggol Drive, pickleball is banned entirely, while the courts near Block 14 Kampong Arang Road and at Block 47 Marine Crescent allow it during certain hours.

Such uneven rules create confusion, disputes, and even unnecessary police calls, wasting resources and causing tension between residents and players.

At the same time, demand for courts is surging. ActiveSG bookings are almost impossible to secure, while private facilities are too costly for many retirees and families.

Leaving the decision to individual town councils has created a patchwork of rules that frustrates both residents and players. I hope the Government can standardise this, such as by allowing pickleball on outdoor badminton courts during fixed daytime hours. I also hope there will be more dedicated pickleball courts, or conversion of under-utilised spaces.

Pickleball keeps seniors healthy, reduces isolation, and builds intergenerational bonds. It is an opportunity to promote healthy lifestyles, strengthen community ties, and give seniors like me a meaningful way to stay active.

The ball is now in the Government’s court.

Ng Hock Chye