Planning permission has been granted for a rooftop padel facility in Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, positioning it as a contender for the UK's first such club. The project involves four courts on the Gracechurch Shopping Centre car park, announced by Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID. It aims to create jobs and expand local sports options.
In a development that could mark a milestone for padel in the UK, Birmingham City Council has approved plans for four padel courts on the rooftop of the Gracechurch Shopping Centre's multi-storey car park in Sutton Coldfield. The initiative, revealed by Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID, includes a clubhouse, fitness club, restaurant area, and outdoor terrace. To keep play contained, the courts will be enclosed by a 5.2-metre net.
This project enters a competitive race, following last week's report on True Padel's proposed venue atop the Beacon Shopping Centre in North Shields, Tyneside, which was touted as the UK's first rooftop padel club but awaits permission. Sutton Coldfield's approval gives it an edge, though no opening date has been specified.
The facility will operate seven days a week, creating 15 jobs and providing more opportunities for locals to engage in the growing sport of padel. The plans account for the loss of 112 parking spaces, considered surplus since over 500 spaces remain unused at all times.
Padel, a racket sport combining tennis and squash, has seen rising popularity in the UK. This rooftop setup in Sutton Coldfield could set a precedent for urban sports developments, blending recreation with city infrastructure.