How to source Padel sites in the UK

Padel is the fastest-growing sport in the UK. This tennis and squash hybrid has seen explosive infrastructure growth, with the number of courts increasing from 40 in 2019 to over 350 by the end of 2024.

With significant investment flowing into the sport and participation rates surging, finding sites for new Padel venues has become a hot topic for developers and investors. 

But what makes for a suitable Padel site, and how can you source prime locations before your competitors? In this article, we’ll outline the essential criteria you must consider to source ideal Padel court locations in the UK.

Understanding the Padel market opportunity

Before we dive into specific site criteria, you need to understand why Padel represents such an attractive investment opportunity:

• Rapid growth: Padel is the fastest-growing sport in the UK, with annual participation increasing from 6,000 five years ago to 129,000 today
• ROI potential: A well-located Padel court can generate significant returns
• Diverse demographic appeal: The sport attracts players across age groups and skill levels
• Lower space requirements: Padel courts need less space than traditional tennis courts, making them ideal for dense urban areas
• Growing corporate interest: Major sports brands and investors are entering the market

Essential Padel site requirements

When searching for the perfect Padel location, several key factors need to be considered:

Space requirements for Padel sites

• Minimum site area: 200m² per court (smaller than traditional tennis)
• Ideal configuration: 2-6 courts for optimal operational efficiency
• Ceiling height: Minimum 8m for indoor venues
• Power supply: 3-phase electricity access
• Parking: 4-6 car parking spaces per court
• Access: Good vehicle access for construction and maintenance
• Drainage: Adequate surface water management systems
• Lighting: Suitable for evening play without causing local disruption

Suggested location criteria

The most successful Padel venues typically share these characteristics:

• Within 15 minutes drive time of 50,000+ population
• Close to affluent residential areas (average household income £45,000+)
• Good visibility from major roads
• Excellent transport links
• Proximity to complementary facilities (gyms, sports centres, retail parks)
• Limited local competition within a 3-mile radius
• Strong local sporting community
• Growing young professional population

Planning considerations for new Padel sites

Understanding local planning requirements is crucial. Key factors include:

• Existing use class and potential for change of use
• Noise impact on surrounding areas
• Light pollution considerations
• Height restrictions
• Local authority attitude toward sports facilities
• Environmental impact assessments
• Parking and traffic management plans
• Community benefit demonstrations

How to quickly find prime sites using technology 

Manual site searching is time-consuming and often misses hidden opportunities. This is where Searchland's powerful platform comes into play.

Using our comprehensive property data layers, you can:

• Overlay demographic data with transport links to identify optimal catchment areas
• Screen sites against planning constraints
• Identify ownership details for off-market opportunities
• Analyse local competition and market gaps
• Track planning histories of similar sports facilities
• Monitor market movements in real-time
• Access comprehensive planning data to assess similar applications

Types of sites to consider for Padel courts

Types of sites developers are using to deliver successful Padel sites:

Existing Sports Facilities

• Tennis clubs looking to diversify
• Golf clubs with unused space
• Leisure centres seeking new attractions
• School sports facilities seeking additional revenue

Commercial Conversions

• Warehouse units
• Retail park spaces
• Former car showrooms
• Unused office parking areas

New Developments

• Mixed-use schemes
• Residential development amenities
• Business park leisure facilities
• Urban regeneration projects

Making your site viable

Finding a suitable site is important, but not the full picture. Consider these factors to ensure long-term success and profitability:

• Revenue potential: Analyse local demographics and competitor pricing
• Operating costs: Factor in staffing, maintenance, and utilities
• Planning permission: Assess the likelihood of approval
• Future expansion: Consider space for additional courts
• Complementary facilities: Potential for café, shop, or other revenue streams
• Management structure: Consider whether to operate independently or as part of a chain
• Technology integration: Booking systems and access control

Next steps?

Ready to find your perfect Padel site? Searchland's platform can help you identify and evaluate potential locations faster. Our sophisticated search tools and comprehensive data layers make finding sites that meet your criteria easy.

Book a demo today to see how we can help you source your subsequent Padel development before your competitors.

Want to learn more about finding development opportunities? Check out our guide on finding the perfect retail site in the UK for more insights into our location analysis tools.