Trafford Council Set To Join The Padel Trend With New Courts Planned

The fast-growing racquet sport of padel is set to come to Trafford’s council-run leisure facilities with first courts aiming to open this year and more to follow.

Subject to planning permission, two open-air, green asphalt-surfaced courts are set to be added at Altrincham Golf Course on land near the reception area, with aims for construction to begin this summer.

It is hoped the facilities can open to the public in the autumn. More courts are planned for Stretford and Sale as part of wider plans to revamp the leisure centres at the two towns, which are run by Trafford Leisure.

The game, which originated in Mexico but is taking the world by storm, is usually played in doubles and encompasses elements of tennis and squash.

According to the Lawn Tennis Association, there were only 15,000 British players in 2019 but by the end of 2024, that figure was more than 400,000.

The sport has become hugely popular as it is easy for beginners to get started and it is suitable for players of all ages and abilities. Once into the game, there are plenty of techniques and tactics to learn to progress.

Cllr Eve Parker, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Leisure, Arts, Culture and Heritage said: “We are delighted about the prospect of introducing padel to our wide range of fun things to do to be active and keep fit in Trafford.

“While there are courts in the borough at private facilities, this is set to be the first time that the Council and Trafford Leisure have been able to offer this growing attraction.”

Jo Cherrett, Chief Executive Officer of Trafford Leisure said: “Trafford Leisure always tries to stay ahead of fitness trends and we are excited at the prospect of being the first community owned venue in the area to bring this great game to our local community!

“Padel is a fantastic sport that is becoming increasingly popular as it’s easy to play, low impact and can appeal to a wide range of people from children to pensioners.”

A planning application has been submitted to the Council.