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On the morning of April 15, the Thanh Liệt Ward People's Committee in Hanoi, in coordination with competent authorities, organized the forced dismantling of a 22-court pickleball complex operated by Sportbase Arena on Quang Liet Street. The violated project was developed by investor Hoàng Xuân Khiêm, featuring a large steel-frame structure about 6 meters high, with a total area of more than 6,200 square meters and tens of billions of dong invested. The facility was built on agricultural land without permission from the competent authorities to change its land-use purpose. According to Thanh Liệt Commune People’s Committee, from January 2026 authorities detected the violation and issued administrative penalties. The owner was fined 140 million dong and required to restore the original status of the land. However, despite paying the fine, the investor did not carry out the dismantling of the project. The dismantling and removal of the 22 courts, covering more than 6,000 square meters, was completed on 15 April. Authorities said this was part of a plan to review and resolve violations on agricultural land in the area. Sportbase Arena issued an official notice, saying it has halted all activities and apologized to customers. The facility is reviewing the list of booked courts, including both fixed schedules and bookings by date, to ensure players’ rights. Affected customers will be refunded in accordance with regulations. The company also said it would contact each customer soon to address any issues arising and asked for understanding. The Sportbase Arena complex was invested with 22 courts meeting competition standards, along with a 600-seat spectator stand and services such as food and health care. The project opened in March and was promoted as Hanoi’s premier destination for pickleball enthusiasts. Source: Vien Minh, VTC News
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