Construction is set to start later this week on the UK's first purpose-built padel warehouse in Longbenton, North Tyneside. The Pure Padel development at Gosforth Business Park will feature 10 indoor courts across 40,000 square feet and include facilities for corporate events. The project aims to meet growing demand for the fast-expanding racquet sport in the region.
Padel, a racquet sport akin to tennis but played in an enclosed court where the ball can rebound off the walls, has become the fastest-growing sport in the UK. The new facility in Longbenton marks the first purpose-built site for the game, unlike existing courts in areas such as Benton, South Shields, and Hexham, which have been converted from other uses.
The development on Salters Lane at Gosforth Business Park will span 40,000 square feet and include 10 indoor courts. It will also feature a hospitality-led clubhouse with a café, licensed bar, sports lounge, premium changing facilities, and dedicated spaces for corporate events. The site is expected to open in December 2026, creating new roles in coaching, hospitality, and operations.
Pure Padel submitted its planning application to North Tyneside Council in June 2024. The council's planning committee approved the plans in March 2025, despite seven public objections. These concerns included increased parking on narrow streets and environmental issues due to the site's proximity to Gosforth Nature Reserve. Councillors proceeded with approval after determining no formal planning objections.
Sammy Arora, founder and CEO of Pure Padel, described the start of construction as a huge milestone. He stated: "There is huge demand for padel across Newcastle and the wider North East, with people travelling significant distances to play, and we’re proud to finally be delivering a facility that matches that appetite. We're also excited to support Newcastle’s growing business community by creating a venue that works just as well for corporate events and networking as it does for playing padel."
Recent developments in the region include Padel Up opening a venue with a bar and café in Gateshead this month, and True Padel applying to expand into an industrial unit in Sunderland.
