Plans to develop a padel tennis centre in St John’s have been put forward by Project Padel Ltd.
The proposal is the latest plan to redevelop part of the old Meco factory, which has been empty since being vacated by its most recent owners Komatsu in 2023.
EMPTY: The padel centre would take over some of the old Meco factory (Image: Phil Wilkinson-Jones/LDRS)
A plan to turn a large part of the factory into a 24-hour gym is still under consideration by the city council.
The latest proposal is for a purpose-built padel centre with four courts, changing facilities and a breakout room.
Padel is a racket sport played on an enclosed court about a third the size of a tennis court. It is said to be easy to learn and is generally played as a doubles game.
Project Padel said in its application: “In excess of 2,500 padel clubs opened across the world in 2023, rising from a total of 9,994 clubs in 2022 to 12,651 clubs at the end of 2023. “Approximately 111 courts were built every week and further growth is expected.
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“Padel can be played by anyone, regardless of age, gender, socioeconomic level, or physical condition, making the sport more inclusive than other endurance activities or strenuous sports.
“Padel offers the opportunity to exercise but also to socialise, and this unique combination has been a core reason for the growth in popularity.”
In terms of developing the Joy Mining site, it said: “The existing estate access arrangements will be utilised.
“Pedestrian routes will be provided to integrate with the entrance to the building.”
The company says the centre would create between four and six jobs, with up to two workers being on site during opening hours.
The centre would operate on a pay-to-play basis and would open Monday-Friday 7am-11pm, plus weekends 7am-9pm.
According to the plans, the gym has received support from planning officers but will be determined at committee.