Plans to turn warehouse into padel court centre

Padel is a cross between tennis and squash that has ballooned in popularity in recent years (stock image)

A former industrial warehouse could be transformed into an indoor centre for the increasingly popular game of padel.

Proposals have been submitted to West Northamptonshire Council to turn an empty building on Kingsfield Business Park in Kings Heath, Northampton, into nine courts.

Padel Power, the applicant behind the project, said it would offer "high-quality" indoor courts, professional coaching and an "inclusive programme" designed to welcome players of all ages and abilities.

A decision on the plans is due to be made by the council by 2 February next year.

Submitted plans hope to turn the warehouse into a multi-court centre (stock image)

Padel, which has swelled in popularity in recent times, is similar to tennis but is distinguished by shorter rackets, smaller courts and underarm serves.

Earlier this year, the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) estimated there were about 800 padel courts in Britain but more than 800,000 players.

Padel Power said Northampton was the "ideal location" for its new centre and said it hoped to develop and run different leagues and competitions.

The 2.4-acre (one hectare) warehouse would comprise of seven doubles courts and two singles courts, along with a pickleball court and table tennis area.

The plans also include a reception area, cafe, viewing area, changing rooms and car parking.

According to plans, the centre would be open from 05:00 to 23:00 Monday to Saturday, and 08:00 until 20:00 on Sundays.

In a letter of support, Joseph Barron, the founder of the Northampton Padel League, said the development would be a "major step forward for local sport".

He wrote: "At present, there is no venue in Northampton large enough to accommodate this growing demand.

"The proposed Padel Power facility provides the ideal solution - offering the space, infrastructure and accessibility required to support both the current padel community and the future expansion of the sport in the region."

Padel Power said it hoped to open the site during the first quarter of next year.