0
Exciting plans are being put forward for a unique floating padel facility at Liverpool Waters, marking a first for the UK.
This unique project will bring three floating courts and a Scandinavian-inspired clubhouse to Princes Dock, offering a fresh take on one of the world’s fastest-growing sports.
Padel, a sport that blends elements of tennis and squash, has gained massive popularity worldwide, with over 700 courts now established across the UK. Played in doubles, the game is known for being accessible and social, making it a perfect fit for this waterfront location. However, this floating facility will be the first of its kind in the country, adding an extra layer of innovation to the sport’s rise in the UK.
The development is being led by Peel Waters in partnership with a team of experts, including Ville Leisti, CEO of Floating Padel Oy; Tytti Sirola, CEO of Bluet Floating Solutions; Gareth Evans, managing director of Padel Ventures; and Paul Danson, founder of Imagineering Global.
James Whittaker, managing director of Peel Waters, expressed his excitement about the project: “We are really pleased to be bringing the UK’s first floating padel courts to Liverpool Waters. This floating concept demonstrates the open approach we have at Peel Waters to welcoming innovative, new ideas and collaborating with forward-thinking businesses to use our portfolio as a testbed for unique, UK-first activations on water and the surrounding land.
“Padel is a fantastic, accessible activity and the social side of the sport is of utmost importance to us. We have thousands of residents, workers, and visitors already on site at Liverpool Waters, and we are constantly looking at new ways to connect the community and introduce new activities for them to experience. This new facility will be an iconic, must-visit padel destination, both for enthusiasts and spectators, encouraging more socialising, friendship forming, and opportunities for the area.”
The courts will be built on a specially designed floating platform from Finland, while the padel courts themselves will be sourced from Spain. The accompanying clubhouse, envisioned by Imagineering Global, will include a bar and kitchen, providing a lively hub for both players and spectators. Bluet Floating Solutions will be responsible for designing and constructing the floating infrastructure supporting the clubhouse.
Gareth Evans of Padel Ventures highlighted the significance of the development: “Working with Peel Waters to offer what will be one of the most iconic padel destinations in the world is so exciting for us. One of the reasons we love padel so much is the social side of the sport, and so it’s not just about creating a new landmark leisure concept, it’s about creating something the community will enjoy and businesses will want to use. We want to make a space which gets people out socialising and encourages people to pick up a racquet and have a go.
“The design of the space will create an environment that celebrates the sport and the uniqueness of the location, whilst also providing a space to watch the world go by, grab a drink, relax, and enjoy being by the water.”
Floating Padel Oy is bringing its expertise to the project, having already developed one of the world’s first floating padel court facilities in Espoo, Finland. With a 20-year track record in floating construction, the company’s involvement adds credibility and experience to this ambitious initiative.
Peel Waters has confirmed that the planning application will be submitted to Liverpool City Council this week, with a decision expected in the spring. If approved, the facility is expected to open by late summer, introducing an exciting new addition to Liverpool’s vibrant waterfront.