Plans for padel centre on former school site

A padel centre could be built on the site of former school buildings in Leicester.

Courtlab has submitted plans to Leicester City Council for the new facility on land off St Oswald Road.

According to planning documents, the proposed development would comprise 11 padel courts and a clubhouse, which would contain a bar, a shop and a social area.

The plans state the centre would "positively contribute to the character and vibrancy" of the area.

A report submitted with the application shows the site previously contained school buildings, before their demolition as part of the redevelopment of New College.

Padel, which has increased in popularity in recent years, is similar to tennis but is distinguished by shorter rackets, smaller courts and underarm serves.

In 2025, the Lawn Tennis Association estimated there were more than 1,000 padel courts in Britain.

The plans add that the applicant would enter into a partnership with a neighbouring school to allow designated times for it to access the padel centre each week.

"It offers a well-considered, accessible, and sustainable community leisure facility that will deliver significant benefits to the residents of Leicester," a report submitted by the applicant adds.

Leicester City Council's website states it would aim to make a decision on the plans by 1 July.

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