An industrial unit in Burntwood could soon become a new indoor facility for padel and pickleball, two rapidly growing sports. The proposal, submitted by LCP Properties Ltd, aims to bring a high-quality venue to the area off Ring Road. Local leaders have welcomed the idea for its potential to boost health and community activity.
Burntwood is set to potentially gain a new sports hub with plans to convert an underused industrial unit into indoor courts for padel and pickleball. The development, proposed by LCP Properties Ltd, targets a site off Ring Road and would be operated by Padel + Play, a company already running similar boutique facilities in Worcester and Stratford-upon-Avon.
Padel and pickleball, which blend elements of tennis and squash, rank among the UK's fastest-growing sports, attracting players of various ages. The initiative promises to revitalize the building while promoting local wellbeing.
Cllr Darren Ennis, leader of Burntwood Town Council, expressed strong support for the project. "This is a really positive opportunity for Burntwood," he said. "We are always keen to see underused buildings brought back into active use, especially when proposals focus on health, wellbeing, and community activity. Padel and pickleball are growing sports that appeal to a wide range of ages, and facilities like this can help people stay active close to home."
Nick Bryson from LCP Properties echoed this enthusiasm, noting the site's suitability. "This is a great opportunity to give this building a new lease of life," he stated. "The space is well suited to indoor sports use and the aim is to create a high quality facility that serves Burntwood and the surrounding communities. We believe this is a positive and sustainable use for the site."
The planning application, submitted to Lichfield District Council, initially seeks approval for the change of use. Further details would follow if permission is granted. Ennis emphasized the alignment with broader goals: "It is important to stress that this is still subject to approval by Lichfield District Council, but it is encouraging to see investment interest that aligns with our wider ambition to improve leisure and wellbeing opportunities in Burntwood."