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Work begins on new five-court padel venue at Victoria Park in Southport
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Work is now under way on a brand new padel venue in Southport, with a five-court facility set to open this summer at Victoria Park.
The six-figure development, known as Birkdale Padel Club, is the first project from Sefton Padel and will transform a 3,600 sq m site into a new hub for one of the UK’s fastest-growing sports.
Groundworks and site clearance have already begun, with the venue expected to open in June.
Alongside the courts, plans include a grab-and-go coffee kiosk, changing facilities, outdoor seating, cycle storage and vending machines for equipment, drinks and snacks, creating a space designed for both players and visitors.
The site – which previously housed six tennis courts – will retain and upgrade three of them as part of the development.
Founder and chief executive Paul McComb has secured the site on a 15-year lease from Sefton Council, with the scheme already attracting significant interest ahead of opening.
More than 2,500 people have signed up to a waiting list, highlighting the growing demand for padel across the region.
The club will be open daily from 7am to 10pm and will offer concessions for under-18s and blue light workers. It will also work with local schools to provide free introductory sessions and holiday coaching camps for young people.
Sefton Padel has also committed to using local suppliers and tradespeople throughout both the construction and day-to-day running of the venue.
Planning permission for the scheme was approved in December, with the council backing it as a positive addition to the area.
Paul McComb said: “We are excited to begin work to deliver a quality asset for the community by making padel accessible and inclusive for all.
“Birkdale Padel Club will enhance the recreational facilities at Victoria Park, and we aim to create lasting social and economic benefits.
“The demand has already been incredible, and we’re looking forward to opening and welcoming players to this fast-growing sport.”
Paulette Lappin added that the project reflects the borough’s commitment to improving sports facilities and making the most of public spaces.
She said: “Padel is the fastest-growing sport in the UK and we want to make sure we’re serving our communities in the best way possible.
“We’re pleased to be working with Sefton Padel to enhance facilities and deliver both financial and social value for local people.”
The courts themselves are being specially built in Spain before being shipped to the UK, with a team of industry professionals supporting the project as it takes shape ahead of its summer opening.
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