Surrey is on the brink of becoming a premier destination for international padel competitions, thanks to the green light received for a cutting-edge centre dedicated to this rapidly growing racket sport.
In a significant development, the Mole Valley District Council has granted approval for the construction of a state-of-the-art facility, featuring six courts housed under an impressive 11-meter-high dome, situated adjacent to the Leatherhead leisure centre.
These purpose-built courts cater specifically to padel enthusiasts, offering an exhilarating blend of tennis and squash, predominantly played in doubles.
Backed by the endorsement of the Lawn Tennis Association, these courts are poised to become the stage for not just national competitions but also prestigious international events.
Padel has emerged as the world’s fastest-growing sport, witnessing a surge in popularity with courts springing up worldwide and substantial investments pouring into the game. Notable sports personalities like Virgil van Dijk and Andy Murray have thrown their weight behind it, fueling hopes for its inclusion in the Olympic program by 2032.
Despite apprehensions regarding its impact on the surrounding green belt, Mole Valley councillors have emphasised the myriad benefits this initiative offers to the community.
In addition to serving as a premier sporting venue, developers have pledged to conduct regular padel lessons and initiate outreach programs in collaboration with local schools, aiming to foster widespread participation and engagement.
Councillor Raj Haque hailed the proposal as a landmark development in the realm of sports infrastructure, highlighting the high-quality facilities it promises to deliver.
To ensure seamless integration with the natural landscape, the padel dome will be strategically nestled amidst trees, providing a shield against intrusive views, as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
Moreover, the proposal includes provisions for 23 parking spaces, catering to the needs of visitors and players alike, thereby enhancing accessibility and convenience.
With the stage set for the emergence of Surrey as a prominent hub for padel enthusiasts, the approved project heralds a new era of sporting excellence and community engagement in the region.
