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August 04.2025
2 Minutes Read

Padel Boom Sparks Planning Surge: 17,000 Development Sites Identified

Padel development opportunities UK, player in action on court.

Understanding the Padel Phenomenon in the UK

The UK is witnessing an unprecedented surge in the popularity of padel—a dynamic racquet sport that fuses elements of tennis and squash. Recent data reveals that the number of people playing padel has skyrocketed from just 89,000 in 2021 to over 400,000 in 2024. This meteoric rise not only reflects a shift in sports preferences but also signifies a burgeoning opportunity for businesses and urban planners.

Planning Applications Skyrocket

With the increasing interest in the sport, planning applications for new padel facilities have exploded, growing by 113% from 2023 to 2024. In just a few years, applications have surged from 53 in 2021 to a projected 544 by the end of 2025—a clear marker of pent-up demand and investment potential.

Development Opportunities Amidst the Boom

According to Searchland, a land and planning insight platform, there are currently nearly 17,000 viable locations throughout the UK for new padel courts, primarily targeting urban spaces where demand for leisure facilities is on the rise. London leads the way with over 1,000 existing sports venues and commercial properties suitable for development.

Short-term Investment Prospects

Additionally, 674 identified sites offer short-term opportunities for padel installations as developments are underway. These sites could serve as attractive temporary revenue-generating assets, proving especially enticing for investors.

Market Signals for Financial Institutions

As the rapid growth of padel signals a shift in recreational dynamics, financial institutions and service providers should watch closely. The sport’s combination of low startup costs and strong returns presents a unique investment avenue ripe for exploration.

As Hugh Gibbs of Searchland stated, the rising popularity of padel is more than just a fleeting trend—it's a market signal that warrants attention from developers and local authorities alike. Recognizing this opportunity can be essential for savvy investors looking to capitalize on emerging trends in leisure and recreation.

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