Bradford is set to welcome its first dedicated padel centre, marking a significant milestone for the fast-growing racquet sport. The Bradford Council recently approved plans for a new five-court facility at Beckside Business Park in Lidget Green. This exciting development is expected to create new jobs and provide a much-needed venue for padel enthusiasts in the city.
Padel, which blends elements of tennis and squash, has seen a surge in popularity in recent years. The sport, invented in Mexico in 1969, is played on smaller indoor courts and has gained a strong following, with celebrities like David Beckham and Eva Longoria among its avid fans. The Lawn Tennis Association has even described padel as “the fastest-growing sport in the world”.
The new centre, proposed by Fahad Qureshi, will feature five courts and 13 parking spaces. While there are already padel facilities in nearby Ilkley and Rawdon, this will be the first dedicated centre for the sport in Bradford. Planning officers have highlighted that the facility will fit well within the existing leisure uses in the area and will contribute to employment in the employment zone.
The approval of the new padel centre comes at a time when the sport’s popularity is soaring, with an estimated 30 million players worldwide. The centre is expected to attract both new and experienced players, providing a space for them to enjoy the unique blend of tennis and squash in a friendly and accessible environment.
Bradford’s new padel centre is a testament to the city’s commitment to promoting healthy and active lifestyles. With the sport’s rapid growth and increasing recognition, the centre is poised to become a hub for padel enthusiasts and a valuable addition to the city’s sporting infrastructure.
