Forum: Persistent pickleball noise disrupts residents’ peace
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I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the ongoing noise disturbances caused by pickleball games at the badminton court below my residence at Block 524 Jelapang Road.
Over the past few months, two groups of pickleball enthusiasts have been utilising the court daily, from 8am to 11am, including on weekends and public holidays.
Unlike badminton, pickleball produces sharp, high-pitched sounds from the hard paddles striking the plastic balls. These sounds are particularly disruptive in the densely populated HDB environment, where noise reverberates off surrounding buildings.
My husband, a night-shift security officer, struggles to rest during the day owing to the constant noise. A neighbour working night shifts faces the same issue.
As I am expecting to become a grandmother soon, the prospect of caring for an infant in such a noisy environment is distressing.
We approached the players respectfully, suggesting compromises. Unfortunately, these suggestions were dismissed.
Some even suggested that if we couldn’t tolerate the noise, we should consider moving – a response that felt dismissive and insensitive.
While we support the Government’s initiative to promote active lifestyles among seniors, it’s essential to balance recreational activities with residents’ well-being.
I have a few suggestions:
Designate specific hours for pickleball play in residential areas to minimise disturbance.
Encourage the use of quieter equipment designed to reduce noise levels.
Develop dedicated pickleball facilities in non-residential areas or sound-insulated indoor venues.
I urge the authorities to consider these suggestions to ensure that recreational activities do not come at the expense of residents’ peace and comfort.
K.K. Wong
