Hexham, Northumberland – Northumberland is set to welcome its first padel court later this month, following a significant investment of £91,00. The new court will be located at Hexham Tennis Club and is expected to boost the popularity of the rapidly-growing sport in the region.
Padel, a sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, is played in a space half the size of a tennis court. The new facility will be the third dedicated padel court in the North East, following recent openings in Benton and Durham, with another set to open in Sunderland this winter.
The project received funding from the S106 Housing Developers Fund, which was combined with contributions from Hexham Tennis Club. The court will be available for both members and non-members, providing a new recreational option for the local community.
The construction of the court began at the end of last month and is part of a broader trend in the UK, where the number of padel courts has increased significantly, with 250 new courts built between 2022 and 202.
Local residents and sports enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the opening, hoping it will encourage more people to take up the sport and provide a new venue for social and competitive play.
