Leeds sports centre plans padel courts to take advantage of UK's fastest growing sport
Padel courts are proposed for Football World, a soccer centre in the Cross Green Industrial Estate.
Last updated 15th Jun 2026
A fast-growing racket sport could be enjoyed at an east Leeds sports centre if expansion plans go ahead.
Padel courts are proposed for Football World, a soccer centre in the Cross Green Industrial Estate.
Four flood-lit outdoor courts would be installed at the Pontefract Lane site if planning permission is granted by Leeds City Council.
A design report said: “Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in the UK, with its popularity surging in recent years.
“The proposal is for the installation of four uncovered outdoor padel courts, arranged in two rows of two, on one of the existing football pitches.”
The report said padel was known to boost physical and mental well-being and encourage social connections.
It said: “It is particularly well-suited for older players, beginners, or those returning to sport, due to the smaller court size and slower-paced rallies.”
Lighting columns of six metres in height would be installed as part of the project.
The report said lights would be angled and shielded to avoid glare spilling into the surrounding area.
It said: “This approach ensures that any impact on nearby land uses is appropriately reduced, while still providing a safe and effective level of lighting for players.”
Daily opening hours of 6am-11.30pm are proposed, making the new courts suitable for before-work and evening games, the report said.
It said: “The closest residential dwellings are located over 700 meters west of the site.
“There are examples of leisure uses within the surrounding area including football and padel.”
Leeds City Council is considering a full planning application which is out for consultation until June 30.