Plans for a new Padel centre in Birkenhead have been submitted to Wirral Council. The proposals aim to bring an "underutilised commercial unit" near Cammell Laird back into use as a five-court Padel centre.
The application, submitted on behalf of Absolute Padel Ltd, seeks a change of use for a vacant unit on the corner of Turbine Road and New Chester Road. The plans also include a 31-space car park.
Fastest growing sport
Described by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) as "the fastest growing sport in the world," the tennis-like racquet sport is played on courts roughly half the size of a standard tennis court. Originating in Mexico, the sport has seen venues appear across Europe and North America in recent years, and Padel is now available in most towns and cities across the UK.
The unit, located within the Turbine Park estate, is said to be in an ideal location to link to both the highway and public transport networks, being close to major roads and the Green Lane Merseyrail station.
Facility details and community benefits
The site would consist of four double courts and one singles court. The venue would also include indoor changing facilities, toilets, and catering facilities serving coffees, teas, and juices.
The application, submitted to the council, explains the community benefits the site could provide. It said: "Beyond everyday pay-and-play use, the facility offers the opportunity to engage directly with younger people and the local community through voluntary initiatives such as junior coaching sessions, discounted or subsidised access for schools and youth groups, and outreach designed to introduce the sport to first-time participants. Provision of this kind supports wider objectives around increasing participation in physical activity from an early age and helps embed active, healthy habits within the community."
