Planning permission has now been granted for the UK’s first floating Padel tennis courts at Liverpool’s Princes Dock. Although floating Padel courts have already arrived in numerous locations across the world it is a major coup for the city in getting the first one in the UK.
The development will comprise a total of three courts built on floating platforms together with an adjoining floating clubhouse which is likely to become a destination in it’s own right in the heart of Princes Dock. The facility will be able to host up to 100 guests and will offer a bar, kitchen and retail store selling the latest padel kit and a yet to be announced new brand.
The team behind the project include the owners of Princes Dock, Peel, The Finnish company Ville Leisti of Floating Padel Oy, floating architecture specialists Bluet Floating Solutions, Padel Ventures founder Gareth Evans, and the design team Imagineering Global.
James Whittaker, managing director of Peel Waters, said: “Liverpool Waters is leading the way in bringing innovative, world class experiences to the UK. This new floating Padel facility will become a flagship destination for the sport and for waterside leisure in Britain.
“As a Padel enthusiast, I know first hand how fun, accessible and social this sport is. This new floating Padel facility will be a must-visit destination for players around the world whilst also providing a new amenity for residents and workers in Liverpool city centre they have never had before.”
Gareth Evans, CEO Padel Ventures and FPL, said: “We’re thrilled to announce that planning permission has been officially approved for our brand new Padel facility at Liverpool Waters – and the timing couldn’t be better.
“With Padel rapidly gaining popularity across the UK, this is set to become a stand out destination for sport, socialising, and style in the heart of Liverpool.”
Padel is already one of the fastest growing sports in the world and has recently taken the UK by storm. Delays in planning and finding suitable (often weatherproof) sites! has delayed the roll out of many locations offering the likes of floating padel an opportunity to fill a gap in the market. The proposed centre continues to enhance the attractiveness of Liverpool city centre as a place to live with many of the residents in the nearby apartments on Liverpool’s famous waterfront set to benefit from the new facility. The news also comes on the back of the recently opened floating sauna/plunge pool operation Wyld which has become one of the most popular leisure destinations in the city.
