The largest facility for a rapidly growing new form of tennis in the north of England has been approved by Trafford council.

The green light for the 1.5-acre site will kickstart the expansion of The Padel Club in TraffordCity, the retail, leisure, and commercial destination. 

Working in partnership with regeneration specialist Peel Waters, The Padel Club will be a major new hub for health, sport, and socialising within the destination. 

Bosses say the ‘thriving location’ promises to attract visitors from far and wide, contributing to the economic growth of the region and create more local employment opportunities.

The Padel Club will have 11 purpose-built and high-specification courts of which nine will be covered courts and two will be open-air courts. The onsite clubhouse will serve as a hub for relaxation and socialising, offering retail spaces, dining options, and shower facilities. 

Plans also include a dedicated fitness and conditioning area, providing future players and members opportunities to improve their fitness levels and enhance their on-court performance. 

Peel Waters executive director James Whittaker said: “We’re really proud to be working in partnership with The Padel Club to bring their fantastic offering to TraffordCity. Peel has had a vision since the early nineties to bring the best retail and leisure offerings and experiences together in one place.

“We are excited that TraffordCity will now be the home of the biggest Padel facility in the north to further enhance the unparalleled choice of sport and wellbeing available. The facility will deliver new jobs, grow our local visitor economy and create a must visit destination for Padel Fans whilst inspiring a new generation of Padel players and fans within our local community.” 

The Padel Club found Kristopher Ball said ‘the groundbreaking development aligns with its commitment to sustainability and wellness, as they ‘aim to improve the health and well-being of visitors to create an unparalleled experience that will resonate with Padel enthusiasts of all ages’.  

He added: “We are incredibly excited to expand our Padel Club to the vibrant grounds of TraffordCity.

“This new facility marks a pivotal moment for us, and we look forward to welcoming both seasoned players and newcomers to experience the joy of Padel in this world-class destination.” 

Original investors in The Padel Club include former England cricket captain Michael Vaughan, England cricketer Jos Butler, and footballers James Milner and Shay Given.  

Vaughan, who is now a commentator on cricket for TV and radio, said: “This is going to be fantastic. I’m delighted to be involved with The Padel Club and so pleased that TraffordCity has been given the go-ahead.

“I can’t wait for the Padel community to grow. In my humble opinion, Padel is the best sport that incorporates all abilities, all ages and is so much fun.”

Ryan Giggs, former Manchester United FC footballer, said: “The Padel Club is a brilliant place to be; Padel is fast becoming everyone’s new sport to play. I started playing with a couple of friends, including Nicky Butt, and I can’t get enough. I’m back on court pretty much every day, if I can.”