Yesterday (Wednesday, April 24), proposals to construct new padel tennis courts on the rooftop of an ‘underused’ multi-story parking lot at a South London shopping center were authorized. Padel is a racquet sport often played on an enclosed court about one-third the size of a tennis court in doubles.
On Neville Gill Close in Wandsworth, the rooftop of the multi-story parking structure of Southside Shopping Center will house the new padel tennis center. Padel Social Club will manage six enclosed padel tennis courts with spectator seats, treatment and changing rooms, restrooms, showers, a reception area, a gym, and a store.
The Southside Limited Partnership plan was accepted by Wandsworth Council’s planning committee on April 24, with a unanimous vote, following their agreement that it would enhance the area’s amenities. Paul White, a Labour councilor, stated that converting “unused” parking spaces into a sports complex would be a “better use.”
Tony Belton, a labor councilor, commented: “I’m in favor of more sporting facilities. It looks and feels like a building… that can be put up fairly quickly.”
In addition, the center will feature a bar, dining facilities with indoor and outdoor seating, and a public office for coworking. The development will result in the loss of 123 parking spots overall, however according to a report included with the application, the parking lot is underutilized and the location is well-served by public transportation.
