Rotherham next as padel’s march continues

Top Play Enterprises wants to develop courts at a warehouse in Hellaby, citing reduced demand for industrial uses at the site.

In plans now ledged with Rotherham Council, the operator outlined proposals to convert Unit 1 Sandbeck Way at Hellaby Industrial Estate into a complex of several padel courts, with a cafe/bar for patrons to use.

Included in the application is a letter of support from the Lawn Tennis Association, which said: “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 in the sport.

“There are currently no Padel tennis courts in Rotherham and the development fo Padel courts at Hellaby will ensure that local people are able to play.

“Padel is a highly accessible sport, with players quickly able to reach a level of paly where they can enjoy friendly and competitive games. It can make a significant contribution to the development of healthier lifestyles by encouraging people to be more physically active and it also facilitates social interaction and can positively contribute to improved mental health and wellbeing.”

The applicant is working with Trinity Construction Management.

A “justification” document spelling out how a change of use is required speaks of how the 1907s property has been usurped by more modern industrial buildings in the area, with an estimate of up to 300,000 sq ft currently available – this property has been on the market for two years with no takers.

In addition, it is pointed out that a neighbouring unit was converted to a children’s play facility in 2012, setting a precedent for change of use – this attraction, Treasure Island, is still trading. Other occupiers in the area include Screwfix, Meat Mart and Acorn Industrial Services.

The building currently has 14 parking slots allocated. Under the project, this would be ecpanded to just under 40, with an overflow area of 14.

Documents relating to the scheme can be viewed on Rotherham’s planning portal with the reference RB2025/1005.