Padel courts planned for Merrion Centre multi-storey
Merrion Centre bosses are seeking planning permission for eight rooftop padel courts at the shopping complex.
Padel courts could be built on top a city centre multi-storey car park if plans are agreed with the council.
Merrion Centre bosses are seeking planning permission for eight rooftop padel courts at the shopping complex.
The applicant Town Centre Securities said it wanted to expand the growth of padel tennis in the city.
Courts on the eighth level of the car park would be close to high-rise student accommodation, restaurants and shops.
A design report by ID Planning said: “Padel is widely recognised as a fast-growing racket sport, combining elements of tennis and squash in a format that is social, inclusive and relatively easy to learn.
“Its increasing popularity across the UK has led to a notable rise in demand for accessible indoor courts, particularly in larger urban areas.”
Seven indoor courts would be housed in a detached aluminium-framed structure at the car park site, built in the 1960s.
There would be one outdoor court, along with a reception area, bar and shower facilities.
The development would result in the loss of 128 roof-top spaces at the car park, which currently has room for around 960 vehicles.
The report said: “The application site forms part of the existing Merrion Centre car park, currently operated by CitiPark.
“The building comprises eight levels in total, with this proposal limited to the uppermost level.”
The report said the new facilities would help boost healthy lifestyles among the city centre population.
It said: “Overall, the proposed development represents a sustainable and appropriate form of development within a highly accessible city centre location.”
Leeds City Council is considering a full planning application which is out for consultation until June 3.