Proposals to convert a Grade II-listed Victorian railway engine shed into a padel and leisure facility near Leeds city centre have been revived after three years. Leeds-based Ollo Padel aims to open the community-focused centre by the end of 2026, featuring courts, social spaces and fitness areas. The project is expected to create 14 permanent jobs and include free coaching for schools.
The Roundhouse, built in 1847 on Wellington Road near Armley Gyratory, once housed up to 20 locomotives during the Victorian era. Initial plans for a padel centre there were proposed to Leeds City Council in 2023 by another operator but were never realised. Now, Ollo Padel has stepped in with a new scheme to transform the disused landmark into a three-acre leisure destination.
Padel, one of the UK's fastest-growing sports—a blend of tennis and squash played on courts about a third the size of a standard tennis court—will anchor the facility. The plans include five covered courts and four open ones, plus hospitality and social spaces, retail areas, fitness studios and gyms. Ollo Padel emphasises community involvement, offering free school coaching lessons, partnerships with educational institutions, and inclusive programmes for women, juniors and all abilities to create a non-intimidating environment.
Luke Gidney, founder of Ollo Padel, expressed enthusiasm: "We are so excited about the opportunity to create this centre for Leeds. We're still at an early stage, and that really matters to us, because it means local residents, businesses and community groups can help shape the plans. We want to listen, learn and make sure the Roundhouse works day to day for the people around it."
Will Linley, co-founder and founder of estate agency Linley & Simpson, added: "These proposals focus on sensitively bringing one of Leeds’ most iconic buildings back to life—restoring the Roundhouse and creating a place people can enjoy, feel proud of and use as part of everyday city life. Padel is a brilliant way to bring people together. We’re designing Ollo around the social side of the sport—creating a place that supports both physical and mental wellbeing through movement, play and connection."
The development prioritises local recruitment for roles in coaching, front-of-house, hospitality and operations. At this early stage, Ollo Padel invites input from the community to refine the project, aiming to revive the site as a hub for recreation and social connection.