Plans unveiled for nine outdoor padel courts in Washington
Unused land at Peel Retail Park could become a local sports hub
Plans for the construction of nine outdoor padel courts at Peel Retail Park in Washington have been submitted to Sunderland City Council’s planning department.
Soul Padel Ltd, a UK-based company focused on the development of padel sports facilities, aims to transform a parcel of unused grassed land at the retail park into a space for the racket sport.
Padel, which combines elements of tennis and squash, is played on small enclosed courts surrounded by a mix of glass and mesh walls. It is typically played in doubles.
The proposed plans include nine courts, with eight sheltered by rain canopies and one left open. Additionally, a clubhouse built from repurposed shipping containers will offer amenities such as reception services, changing rooms, accessible toilets, a coffee bar, seating areas, and storage space.
Soul Padel Ltd stated that its mission is to make padel inclusive and sociable, encouraging participation from people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. The firm also plans to collaborate with local organisations, schools, and sports groups to integrate the facility into the community, creating wider benefits for the area.
Planning documents highlight that the large car park serving the retail park would be utilised for the site and describe the development as both “appropriate and sustainable” for this location.
The company confirmed that similar padel facilities have gained traction across the North East, with other developments emerging, including proposals for Crowther Industrial Estate and Stephenson Industrial Estate.
A decision on the Peel Retail Park proposal is expected following a council consultation exercise, with a deadline listed as 16th March 2026 on Sunderland City Council’s planning portal.
For more information or to monitor the planning application’s progress, visit the council’s planning portal and search reference 26/00063/FUL.