Plans for new padel centre with seven courts

Sunderland City Council receives an application to turn an industrial unit into a leisure hub.

A general view of two people playing padel at an indoor court. One person, with short blond hair and wearing a grey sweater, is in action having just hit the ball. They are pictured from behind and the ball is travelling towards a man in blue shorts and sweater preparing to received the ball.
Those behind the plan said the industrial unit was currently "underutilised" [BBC]

An industrial estate unit could be turned into a new padel sports centre with seven courts.

The plans were submitted to Sunderland City Council for a unit at the Stephenson Industrial Estate in Washington.

Planning documents showed the centre would include a "dedicated studio space" for warm-ups or complementary exercise classes, a reception area and a "compact café and social lounge for customers, spectators and players".

The documents also said the facility would create 10 to 15 jobs in total, including coaches and management.

If approved the development would bring benefits to a "underutilised unit" and would be available to use for schools and clubs.

"The development of a padel facility will also provide new pathways for local sports professionals and coaching networks, further supporting the area's growing health and leisure industry," planning papers said.

In recent years, padel has gained popularity nationally, reports the Local Democracy Reporting service.

Plans for padel facilities have also emerged across the North East, including at sites in Sunderland and South Tyneside.

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Category: General Sports