Lancashire's first indoor paddle tennis facility could open in heart of Preston - here's what we know

Padel Preston Ltd has submitted plans to Preston City Council for the currently boarded-up Office Outlet on the corner of Ringway and Corporation Street.

In an application, they say: “Unfortunately, the building has remained vacant and boarded up since its closure in 2019, becoming a clear eyesore from the surrounding main roads. Over the years, it has suffered from multiple incidents of vandalism and break-ins by homeless individuals, and the interior has been stripped of its electrical systems and left in a state of significant disrepair.

“This once prominent building now stands as a neglected and dilapidated structure at a key location within the city. Padel Preston LTD aims to restore vitality to this site, transforming it into a vibrant, community-focused sports facility that will rejuvenate the area and bring much-needed activity and positive engagement back to the local community.”

What would it be like?

It’s proposed that the unit will house two 10m x 20m paddle tennis courts, designed to meet international standards, along with a café space that will serve players and visitors alike. The courts will be enclosed with appropriate fencing and lighting and the cafe will be positioned to overlook the courts.

The proposal includes refurbishments to the building’s exterior and interior, including repairing and repainting the façade, new windows to the unit, and new signage.

How do you play Padel?

According to the LTA, which regulates padel, the game’s courts have walls, so shots can be played off them – like in squash. Players can "find wicked angles and creative shots to beat your opponents”.

When a ball is served, it must bounce once on the floor and then be hit underarm - but first and second serves still apply, as they would in tennis. The ball is deemed “out” if it hits a wall before touching the ground.

The scoring system is almost identical to tennis and a set is won when a team wins six games - and there is at least two games difference. Otherwise, the set is decided by a tie-break. Matches are the best of three sets.

Padel courts are designed for four players and are roughly 25 percent smaller than a tennis court. The speed of the game makes singles play difficult - hence why most padel matches are played as doubles, the LTA says.

The bat used in padel is smaller than a tennis racket, but weighs a little more, because it has a much thicker body and no strings. The ball appears similar to a tennis ball, but has slightly less pressure, meaning it will rebound off the walls slower and so helping give players more time to hit their shots.