Plans submitted to open huge new padel tennis venue and wellness centre next to busy retail park in Northampton

A former warehouse in Riverside Prime Business Park, just behind the retail park, could be transformed into an indoor padel tennis and wellness centre under a new planning application.

The proposal, submitted by Gareth Bough, would see Unit 8 on Carousel Way converted from industrial use into a multi-purpose facility including four double padel courts, a mini-court, a café, and a wellness area with four therapy rooms and two saunas.

The applicant said: "There are currently no indoor sports facilities dedicated to padel tennis within the surrounding area. Recent trends indicate a growing community interest and demand for covered indoor sports centres, which enable year-round participation regardless of weather conditions. The proposed development would therefore meet an identified local need, providing opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, and overall health and wellbeing for the local community.

He continued: “The proposed facility will also generate local employment opportunities and bring a long-vacant building back into active use.

"The development will enhance the vitality of the business park and contribute positively to its diverse mix of commercial and leisure uses, encouraging greater activity within the area."

The plans also include improvements to the car park, with an increase to 40 spaces, four motorcycle spaces, three disabled bays, and 21 covered cycle spaces.

Exterior changes would include a black metal canopy over the entrance, feature lighting, and branded signage to ‘strengthen the facility’s visual identity’, according to plans.

Comments on the application are invited until November 25 with West Northamptonshire setting a target decision date of December 5.

Padel is a racket sport similar to tennis and squash, played in doubles on a smaller, enclosed court with glass and mesh walls. The ball can be played off the walls, making it fast-paced and easy for beginners to pick up while still challenging for experienced players.

Northampton County Lawn Tennis Club in Weston Favell, and Brampton Heath Golf Club are one of the few places in town which currently offers padel tennis.