The expansion of padel sport in Europe sees a new development in Prestwich.
- Pure Padel Clubs Ltd will construct a new facility featuring seven courts.
- The club will be built on Brooklands playing fields, part of Manchester Maccabi Community.
- Local governing bodies support the club despite the loss of some playing fields.
- Operating hours, facilities, and community access have been detailed in the proposal.
The rapid growth of padel across Europe is marked by the upcoming construction of a new club in Prestwich. This initiative by Pure Padel Clubs Ltd will feature a total of seven courts at the location, previously recognised as Brooklands playing fields, integrated within the Manchester Maccabi Community and Sports Club.
The club’s proposed amenities include four covered padel courts, an open-air padel court, and two additional pickleball courts. A clubhouse, along with updated car and cycling parking facilities, will complement the sporting infrastructure, ensuring comprehensive accessibility and ease of use for all community members.
Sam Foakes, interim head of region for the Lawn Tennis Association (the Sport England recognised governing body for padel), has voiced approval for this development. His commentary highlighted, “Padel is a growing sport in Great Britain. There are currently 350 courts with a further 300 in construction or in the planning process. More than 90,000 people play padel in Great Britain.” This statement underscores the high demand and need for additional infrastructure.
The facility will operate from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., provided by staffing separate from the Maccabi Community and Sports Club. Each court will include six high fixed lighting masts designed to direct light towards the playing surface, ensuring adequate visibility while respecting residential comfort.
Despite recognising that the policy generally resists development that results in the loss of recreational spaces, the application contends this is an acceptable exception. The proposal argues that the redevelopment supports the sustainability and enhancement of sports and recreation facilities in the area. Consequently, Bury Council has granted approval for these plans within the past week.
The introduction of this new padel club in Prestwich reinforces the sport’s burgeoning popularity and demand across the UK, ensuring enhanced community engagement.
