Fusion Padel has submitted a planning application to Tameside Council for four padel courts adjacent to Ashton Cricket Club in Ashton-under-Lyne. The proposal aims to enhance local sports facilities amid the sport's rising popularity in the UK. If approved, the development would include a clubhouse and parking to support community engagement.
Fusion Padel, a local company led by Ryan Heap from Stalybridge and Vishal Patel from Ashton, has applied to build four padel courts next to the pitch at Ashton Cricket Club on Rayner Lane. The main feature would be a large unit designed to complement the existing cricket facilities, as outlined in the supporting documents.
The proposal emphasizes integration with the cricket club to foster a more diverse sporting hub. According to the application, the facility "has been carefully designed to integrate with and support the neighbouring cricket club, helping to create a stronger and more diverse sporting hub for the area." It further notes that padel is expanding quickly in the UK, with limited local options currently available. Fusion Padel positions the project as a way to fill this gap, stating: "The sport is growing rapidly across the UK, yet there is currently limited provision locally. Fusion Padel is playing an important role in addressing this gap by investing in a modern, accessible facility that offers residents a new way to be active, social and engaged in sport. The facility will increase footfall and visibility across the wider site, creating opportunities for shared events, cross-club collaboration and broader community engagement."
Additional elements include a clubhouse made from a repurposed 40-foot container, offering check-in, equipment hire, storage, changing areas, and a small social space. External seating would provide viewing areas, alongside a standalone toilet and shower unit, and new car parking upon entering the site.
Padel combines aspects of tennis and squash, played in doubles on a 10-meter by 20-meter enclosed court using solid, stringless rackets and a lower-pressure ball similar to a tennis ball. The UK's player base exceeds 400,000, with origins in Mexico and strong followings in Spain and Latin America. The nearest courts are under construction at Tame Valley Tennis and Squash Club in Greenfield, expected to open in February.
Tameside Council’s Speaker’s Panel (Planning) committee or officers will decide on the application.