'World class destination for padel' featuring six indoor courts, cafe and recovery and well-being centre set to open in Dewsbury

Padel8 is scheduled to open at Unit 600, Bretton Park Way, in November.

The 30,000 sq ft sports venue will feature six indoor pro-specification courts with AI match cameras and digital scoreboards.

Premium cafe Serv – open to players and non-players as a space for the community – will offer wood-fired pizzas, artisan sandwiches and speciality coffee.

A recovery and wellness centre and studio space will follow in phase two.

The team behind the project say Padel8 is being built around a community-led timetable to meet demand in the area. They expect to run dedicated sessions for juniors, families, women, over-50s and complete beginners, alongside competitive play.

Katie Smith, from the project team, said: “From day one, the vision for Padel8 has been to create much more than a place to play padel.

“We wanted to build a destination where people come to connect, exercise, socialise and feel part of a community.

“One of the biggest reasons padel has become the fastest-growing sport in the world is because it's incredibly social. It's easy to pick up, addictive to play and brings people together in a way that few sports can.

“Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced player, there's a place for you here.”

The courts feature competition-level professional surfaces and 360 degree LED halo lighting for optimal play.

The changing rooms are designed to five-star hotel standard, with marble accented showers, gold fixtures and underfloor heating throughout.

Katie said: “Every element of Padel8 has been designed to deliver an experience that goes far beyond the game itself.

“We wanted to create a venue with the feel of a luxury hotel or members’ club – somewhere people genuinely want to spend time, whether they're playing or not.

“Padel8 isn't just built to be best in class in the UK. It's a world-class destination for padel.”

The team is backing the town’s case for better facilities, amid ongoing calls from campaigners to re-open Dewsbury Sports Centre. Kirklees Council has announced funding towards a new building.

Katie said: “We're not trying to replace what Dewsbury Sports Centre offered. Our goal is different.

“We want to complement the local leisure offering by creating a vibrant community hub centred around one of the world's fastest-growing sports.

“We want Padel8 to become somewhere people visit regularly; not just to play but to meet friends, improve their well-being and be part of a community.

“Above all, we want the people of Dewsbury and Batley to feel proud to have a venue like this on their doorstep, while attracting visitors from across Yorkshire and beyond.”

Patrick Newcombe, who has been appointed as club manager, said: “I’m incredibly proud to be leading our professional, friendly and passionate team at Padel8.

“The team and I can’t wait to welcome everyone through our doors and ensure every visit is a premium, seamless and enjoyable experience.

“We want Padel8 to be a place where everyone feels welcome, whether they’re discovering padel for the first time or are already passionate about the sport.

“I’m looking forward to bringing my years of experience to the role and helping establish Padel8 as a leading destination for sport, hospitality and community in Dewsbury.”