Rotherham could soon welcome its first-ever padel courts, with plans submitted to transform a vacant industrial into a state-of-the-art sports and social facility
The proposals, submitted by Top Play Enterprises, outline the creation of nine indoor padel courts within a building on Sandbeck Way, Hellaby — including a glass-surrounded match court with dedicated viewing areas. The site would also include an on-site café and bar, making it a hub for both sport and socialising.
Padel is one of the fastest-growing racket sports in the world, combining elements of tennis and squash. Played on a smaller enclosed court, it is designed to be more accessible and sociable than traditional tennis, appealing to players of all ages and abilities.
The development is expected to create up to 12 jobs, including padel coaches, cleaning and maintenance staff, and a full-time site manager.
Parking provision at the site would be significantly expanded from the existing 14 spaces to a minimum of 37, with an additional 14 overspill spaces available at the nearby Trinity House unit.
The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) has voiced strong support for the project, stating: “Padel tennis is considered to be the fastest growing sport in the world and there is very high demand in the UK for people to participate. There are currently no padel tennis courts in Rotherham, and the development at Hellaby will ensure that local people are able to play this exciting sport.”
They added that the indoor venue would provide year-round access regardless of the weather and act as a sporting hub for the community, encouraging social interaction and physical activity.
If approved, the Hellaby site will mark a major milestone in Rotherham’s sporting landscape, giving residents the opportunity to try one of the most talked-about sports in the world.
