An application to install new padel courts was unanimously passed by Enfield Council's planning committee last night, bringing one of the UK’s fastest-growing sports to a council-owned venue for the first time.
The construction of a padel facility containing three courts, overhead canopy and floodlights at the rear of Southbury Leisure Centre in Southbury Road (EN1), will begin in the coming months.
The development will also include a dedicated pedestrian access route to the padel facility, two additional parking spaces for Blue Badge holders in the existing car park, and three new stands for cycle parking.
The courts will utilise an underused area of land situated between the existing Southbury Leisure Centre and the adjoining 3G football pitch, supporting the continued expansion of sports and recreation opportunities within the borough.
Cllr Edward Smith, Cabinet Member for Council Assets and Culture at Enfield Council, said: “I am delighted our residents will soon have the opportunity of playing padel in a brand-new facility.
“The new courts will be in an established leisure and recreation setting and will help to address a recognised shortfall in padel provision in the borough.
“Padel is the fastest-growing sport in the UK, so the new courts will support both physical and mental health, by tackling inactivity, obesity and social isolation.”
The facility will operate on a pay-and-play basis, ensuring accessibility for both members and non-members.
The approach means there is no requirement for long-term commitments to play and allows flexible use of the courts to a wide range of users.
The opening hours will be from 7am to 9pm Monday to Friday and from 9am to 5pm at weekends.
A Council public consultation held in March at Southbury Leisure Centre, received 162 responses where 94 per cent supported of the proposal of padel courts.
A further 96 per cent of responders thought padel courts would be a good addition to leisure facilities in the local area.
Find out more about leisure and cultural services in Enfield here.