Having driven an investment injection of £1 million into the launch of its flagship venue at Gloucester Quays' in 2024, The Padel Club is taking its next step towards expanding its vibrant, social games venues across the UK, receiving planning permission for its latest venue — breathing new energy into Cheltenham.
With venues in Cheshire, Greater Manchester and most recently, Gloucester, the Cheltenham hub will add to a rich roster of locations, with The Padel Club looking to expand the popularity of the sport with its distinctive, award-winning and highly social padel experience.
The fastest-growing racket sport ever, currently dominating Europe and set to disrupt the UK sports industry, padel is a hybrid of squash and tennis, played in doubles on a smaller court that also utilises the walls.
The courts' compact size makes the game impactful, competitive and exciting, whilst also remaining inclusive for people of all abilities.
To be located at Unit 11 Festival Trade Park on Wymans Lane, the new facility will include four indoor panoramic courts, premium seating, lockers, showers and a 10-metre-high roof designed to create the perfect playing experience for players of all levels.
Each court can be occupied by four people at one time, therefore at capacity the proposal would include for 16 people on the padel courts.
It is also intended that around 10 to 12 staff members will be employed.
The decision to open in Cheltenham reflects The Padel
Club’s belief that the town’s rich sporting culture and strong sense of
community make it a perfect fit.
Kris Ball, CEO of The Padel Club said: ‘We’ve always believed padel is more than just a sport — it’s a way to connect people. You don’t need a partner to start playing and it’s easy to meet new friends on the court. We want The Padel Club to be a place where people come together, share experiences, and leave with more than just a great game
'We’ve seen how much sportspeople love padel, from cricketers to rugby players and we know Cheltenham has a fantastic sporting heritage. It’s a town that loves sport and community, which is exactly what The Padel Club stands for.
'We want to build something special for Cheltenham — a place that brings people together through padel, whether they’re picking up a racquet for the first time or playing at a competitive level. From our courts to our coaching and customer service, we’re creating something the community can be proud of.'
Now that planning has been approved, it will be supporting a business to expand and provide a wider development opportunity at the site.
The suggested opening hours are expected be 6am to 11pm Monday to Sunday.
Once open — and encouraging everyone to give padel a try — beginner introduction sessions with qualified coaches will be available. All equipment, including racquets, can be hired or purchased from the onsite shop. And bookings can be made easily through the Playtomic mobile app.
While an official opening date is yet to be announced, The Padel Club will begin the conversion at Festival Trade Park soon, with the opening planned for pre-summer.
