Croydon could be home to a major new indoor sports venue by this summer, if freshly submitted planning proposals get the green light.
Warehouse Transformation into Premium Padel Hub
Operator Pure Padel aims to convert a currently empty warehouse on Brighton Road, close to Coulsdon South station, into a high-end padel club. The ambitious plans feature six indoor padel courts, alongside a café, a licensed bar, and a co-working business lounge.
Founder and managing director Sammy Arora called the project "incredibly exciting," marking the company's first foray into the London region. He emphasised the site's exceptional accessibility and a local shortage of quality indoor facilities.
Accessibility and Construction Timeline
A key selling point of the proposed club is its transport links. Coulsdon South station is just a ten-minute walk away, with direct train services from London Victoria and King's Cross St Pancras. For those driving, 16 parking spaces are included in the application.
According to planning documents, if approved, construction would begin in April 2026, with a target completion date by the end of June 2026. Croydon Council is expected to rule on the application next month.
Boosting Sport and Community in South London
The "premium" facility is designed to be more than just a sports centre. Pure Padel promises it will offer coaching, family-friendly sessions, and pay-and-play options without mandatory membership, aiming to widen participation across South London and Surrey.
"Converting this warehouse allows us to create something that works for sport, community, and modern working lifestyles," Arora stated. The new club will operate alongside Pure Padel's existing site in Lightwater, Surrey, and its six other UK locations in cities including Manchester, Nottingham, and Leeds.
The company also has several other projects underway across the country, signalling rapid growth for the sport in the UK.
