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The BMC has launched an inquiry into the Phoenix HSBC Racquet Club amid allegations of unauthorised commercialisation of a recreational ground at Phoenix Mills, Lower Parel. Citizens' group Chaka Chak Lower Parel reported that the 4,058.16 sq.m terrace, originally sanctioned as a public recreational ground, is being used as a ticketed, revenue-generating sports club managed by Bellona Hospitality Services. The complaint cites violations of the MRTP Act, MMC Act, and Development Control and Promotion Regulations, noting that such conversions limit public access and could set a precedent for reducing open spaces in Mumbai.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has initiated an inquiry into the alleged commercialisation of a recreational ground at the Phoenix Mills compound in Lower Parel, following a complaint from citizens' group Chaka Chak Lower Parel. Ashwini Joshi, additional municipal commissioner (city), directed the probe after the group raised concerns that a publicly sanctioned recreational ground is being used for commercial purposes. Advertisement
The complaint states that the 4,058.16 sq.m space was originally approved as a "paved recreational ground" under the layout sanctioned in October 2023. Instead, the area is currently functioning as the Phoenix HSBC Racquet Club, situated on the terrace floor of the West Zone at Phoenix Palladium. Operated by Bellona Hospitality Services, a Phoenix Group entity, the facility is ticketed and offers exclusive sports amenities, effectively making it a revenue-generating club rather than a public recreational ground.
The complainants emphasised that the occupation certificate issued in July 2025 records the area only as a "terrace open to sky, sports facilities and recreational area," without provision for commercial activity. They argued that operating the Phoenix HSBC Racquet Club in this manner constitutes a change of land use, which violates the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning (MRTP) Act, 1966, and the Mumbai Municipal Corporation (MMC) Act. Both regulations are intended to protect recreational grounds for residents' use and prevent commercial encroachment.
The matter was first raised by Atul Kale of Chaka Chak Lower Parel in December 2025 with multiple civic officials, including the assistant engineer (Building and Factory), the assistant superintendent of gardens, and the assistant municipal commissioner of G-South ward. Receiving no action, the complaint was escalated to the additional municipal commissioner in January 2026, prompting the current inquiry.
In addition to requesting the BMC to seal the Phoenix HSBC Racquet Club, the group urged authorities to hold responsible officials accountable for lapses in enforcement. The complaint highlighted that allowing commercial operations on recreational grounds reduces accessible open spaces in densely populated areas like Lower Parel and could create a precedent for similar conversions elsewhere.
Attempts to contact Phoenix officials revealed that they were aware of the allegations but had not issued an official response. While initially stating that all necessary clearances were in place, a formal reply from the group had not been received as of last week. Civic authorities are now assessing compliance with approved plans and regulations and will determine whether enforcement action is required.
The BMC inquiry not only addresses this specific case but also underscores the importance of protecting recreational spaces in high-density urban areas. Ensuring these grounds remain accessible to residents is increasingly crucial as Mumbai faces growing pressure on open spaces. The investigation will clarify regulatory adherence and potentially guide future management of recreational areas across the city.
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