A disused Vue cinema in west London is set to be transformed into an 11-court padel centre after receiving planning approval from councillors.
The former 12-screen cinema at the West 12 Shopping Centre in Shepherd's Bush has stood empty since June after Vue surrendered its lease six months early. The operator had occupied the site since 2001 but faced increasing competition from newer cinemas in nearby White City.
Approval for Rocket Padel Plans
Now the venue is set for a new lease of life after plans by Rocket Padel, which already operates sites in Battersea, Beckton, Ilford and Bristol, were unanimously approved by Hammersmith and Fulham Council.
Planning officers recommended the scheme for approval, saying it would bring a long-vacant unit back into use while boosting the shopping centre's leisure offer.
Documents submitted on behalf of the applicant described padel as a fast-growing and inclusive sport that can help bring "health and vitality" to local communities.
Operating Hours and Conditions
Under the plans, the venue will be open from 6am to midnight from Sunday to Thursday, and until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays.
During a planning committee meeting, councillors questioned whether those hours were appropriate for the shopping centre. Planning officers said other businesses in West 12 already operate at similar times, including a 24-hour bingo hall and an early-opening bagel shop.
Councillor Callum Nimmo also sought assurances that the site could not later be converted into another type of commercial premises. Officers confirmed planning conditions would require it to remain an indoor sports facility.
Positive Use for the Site
Local councillor Ross Melton welcomed the change, telling the committee the cinema had been "underutilised for some years".
He added: "The Vue cinema has been underutilised for some years, outcompeted by similar cinemas in White City. So it is very welcome to see it finding such a positive use."
Padel, a racket sport combining elements of tennis and squash, has enjoyed a rapid rise in popularity across London in recent years, with new courts opening across the capital as operators race to meet demand.
The plans were approved unanimously by councillors.
