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Planning has officially been approved for the UK’s first floating Padel tennis courts
Planning has officially been approved for the UK’s first floating Padel tennis courts, marking a major sporting and leisure milestone for the country.
Set to open at Liverpool Waters in Autumn 2025, the new floating facility places the city alongside global destinations such as Dubai, Miami and Helsinki, where waterside Padel is already making waves. The development will feature three courts built on state-of-the-art floating platforms and the world’s first floating clubhouse, designed for socialising, fitness and waterfront relaxation.
Peel Waters, the team behind the Liverpool Waters regeneration scheme, has partnered with a roster of international experts in floating infrastructure and Padel sport to bring this first-of-its-kind project to life. That includes Finnish pioneer Ville Leisti of Floating Padel Oy, floating architecture specialists Bluet Floating Solutions, Padel Ventures founder Gareth Evans, and award-winning leisure designers Imagineering Global LLP.
Floating Padel Courts
a unique dockside destination for players and spectators
Described as the world’s fastest-growing sport, Padel has taken the UK by storm, with over 700 courts nationwide—but none yet floating. The Liverpool Waters installation promises to change that, creating a unique dockside destination for players and spectators alike.
The facility which was approved by Liverpool City Council will sit within Princes Dock at Liverpool Waters and will have three floating Padel courts – the first of their kind in the UK. The world’s first floating clubhouse which is also part of the approved development will be able to host up to 100 guests and will include a bar, kitchen, and decked seating area overlooking the water. The design of the clubhouse has been inspired by clean Nordic aesthetics and complements other floating leisure concepts at Liverpool Waters, such as Wyld Sauna, the UK’s first floating public sauna.
A retail hub will also be located within the floating clubhouse selling Padel essentials and a new flagship store for an exciting new UK-based lifestyle and leisurewear brand, that will be announced before the opening.
James Whittaker, Managing Director of Peel Waters, said: “Liverpool Waters is leading the way in bringing innovative, world-class experiences to the UK. This new floating Padel facility will become a flagship destination for the sport and for waterside leisure in Britain.
“As a Padel enthusiast, I know firsthand how fun, accessible and social this sport is. This new floating Padel facility will be a must-visit destination for players around the world whilst also providing a new amenity for residents and workers in Liverpool City Centre they have never had before. Whether they’re playing, spectating or socialising in the club, we look forward to our community discovering how much fun this sport is for all.”
Pictured L-R: James Whittaker MD of Peel Waters, Gareth Evans MD of Padel Ventures with Liza Marco and Chris Capes from Liverpool Waters at the site of the future floating Padel destination at Liverpool Waters
Gareth Evans CEO Padel Ventures and FPL Ltd added: “We’re thrilled to announce that planning permission has been officially approved for our brand-new Padel facility at Liverpool Waters — and the timing couldn’t be better. With Padel rapidly gaining popularity across the UK, this is set to become a standout destination for sport, socialising, and style in the heart of Liverpool.
“Getting planning permission for the UK’s first floating Padel destination is just the start. We’re planning exciting partnerships, activations and experiences. This development will bring together stylish gear, vibrant social spaces, and top tier padel courts all in one location. This club will be more than just a place to play become Liverpool’s newest social and sporting hotspot right on the dockside.”
With planning now approved, construction is expected to begin shortly. The courts will be built on a special floating Padel platform from Finland, with the courts themselves manufactured in Spain. Completion is estimated for mid-Autumn 2025.
For general enquiries please contact hello@peelwaters.co.uk
For press and media enquires related to Peel Waters, please email: Emma Green egreen@peel.co.uk or Kate Holland kholland@peel.co.uk