We’re Happy to Share Some Big News for Padel in Essex
We’ve just submitted two new planning applications – one for Saffron Walden and one for Great Dunmow. If approved, these projects will deliver the first dedicated padel courts in both towns and open up the sport to even more local players, families, juniors and clubs.
Once again, we’re incredibly proud to be partnering with 1Life Leisure to bring high-quality, community-first padel facilities to their brilliant venues. Working hand-in-hand with Sport England, both proposals have been carefully designed to enhance the existing sites without reducing multi-sport options.
Saffron Walden – Lord Butler Fitness & Leisure Centre
- One of the two existing multi-use games areas (MUGAs) would be converted into one full-size padel court
- The second MUGA would remain fully available for community use
- An additional netball practice area would be created to boost the site’s offering
This balanced approach keeps the venue multi-sport friendly while introducing padel to Saffron Walden for the first time – perfect for beginners, families and competitive players alike.
View the full application here: https://publicaccess.uttlesford.gov.uk/…&keyVal=TACNP2QNJ3E00
Great Dunmow
- One of the four existing multi-use courts would become one padel court
- Three multi-sports areas would stay in place
- An extra netball practice area would be added
What makes this project especially exciting? It will be our first co-use agreement with a local school. The school will have free priority use of the court during term-time school hours, with public padel sessions running outside those times. It’s a genuine win-win for education, community sport and growing the next generation of padel players.
View the full application here: https://publicaccess.uttlesford.gov.uk/…&keyVal=TAYVONQNJHC00
We’re now in the public consultation phase – so if you live in or near Saffron Walden, Great Dunmow or anywhere in Uttlesford or the surrounding Essex areas and you’d love to see padel arrive close to you, please leave a supportive comment on the applications.
Your voice really does help show the council the local demand.
How to comment – if you wish. (Takes under 1 minute):
- Click the application link above
- Log in or register
- Go to ‘Make a Comment’
- Write something supportive that shows how you feel about this opportunity.
Every comment counts!
We’ll keep you posted on progress and any next steps. In the meantime, if you’re already playing padel and want to spread the word to friends in these areas, feel free to share this post.
Padel is growing fast in the UK because it’s fun, social and genuinely for everyone. Let’s bring that energy to Saffron Walden and Great Dunmow together.
Thanks for your support – we can’t wait to hopefully welcome you to these new courts soon!
