Plans to "future-proof" a family farm with a new indoor padel centre have been submitted.
The development at Offerton Grange Farm, near Sunderland, would include six padel courts, a cafe, mezzanine floor, seating area and parking.
Supporting documents submitted to Sunderland City Council said it was becoming "increasingly difficult" to sustain the farm through agricultural activities alone and there was a "clear need to look beyond agriculture for diversification opportunities".
Padel tennis is one of the fastest growing sports in the world, with demand outstripping the number of venues.
Applicants said the facility was a "natural and necessary progression" for the business and would help "support the continued operation of the family farm, safeguard its future, and ensure it can be passed on to future generations".