A cutting-edge £1 million padel club has opened its doors in Gloucester, transforming a former Toys R Us site into a modern sporting facility.
- Padel, a hybrid sport combining tennis, squash, and badminton, is gaining rapid popularity, touted as ‘the fastest-growing racket sport in the world’.
- The Gloucester facility boasts nine state-of-the-art courts, complemented by a stylish restaurant and bar, aiming to foster a vibrant community atmosphere.
- Employment opportunities have been bolstered with the creation of 15 new jobs, reflecting the club’s commitment to community engagement.
- Strategically located at Gloucester Quays Retail Park, the club aims to attract a diverse demographic, enhancing the regional appeal of padel.
The opening of a new indoor padel club in Gloucester represents a significant investment in the local sports infrastructure. The £1 million facility, housed in the former Toys R Us building, features nine courts and a restaurant and bar, articulating a fresh vision for community recreation.
Padel, a sport that ingeniously merges elements of tennis, squash, and badminton, is played in an enclosed space approximately one-third the size of a standard tennis court. The sport is celebrated for its accessibility and ability to foster a sense of community among participants, making it increasingly popular across the UK.
Hannah Thomas, the general manager of the Gloucester club, emphasizes the sport’s unique appeal: ‘Padel has taken off in the UK because of its accessibility and a real sense of community.’ She adds, ‘Gloucester is a great place to expand the presence of padel in the South West, given its sporting background.’
The strategic location at Gloucester Quays Retail Park was chosen to reach a broad demographic. The club’s opening has resulted in the creation of 15 jobs, further integrating it into the local community fabric. ‘If you haven’t tried padel yet, come along and see how addictive and enjoyable it is. If you are a padel enthusiast, we cannot wait to see you on the court,’ encourages Thomas.
Mark Whittaker, managing director of Peel Retail & Leisure, expressed enthusiasm about introducing the sport to Gloucester. He noted that the growing popularity of padel is evident, with numerous individuals in the area likely to embrace the sport. ‘Operators like The Padel Club had many options for new venues, and we aimed to bring padel here before anyone else,’ he commented.
The collaboration marks the second partnership between Peel and The Padel Club, with another venue featuring 11 courts set to open in Trafford City later this year, highlighting the sport’s expanding footprint.
The launch of the Gloucester Padel Club not only enhances local sports offerings but also signifies the growing appeal of padel in the UK.
