Now that’s something we can get behind – floating padel tennis courts in Liverpool! A floating clubhouse and social deck is coming to Merseyside, after the site’s planning has officially been approved today (July 30).
Peel Waters has partnered with a team of international experts to build the new project. As a result, plans have now been approved by the Liverpool City Council to create the UK’s first floating Padel Tennis courts and floating clubhouse within Princes Dock at Liverpool Waters.
The waterside regeneration specialists will be working alongside Ville Leisti, who is the Finnish founder and CEO of Floating Padel Oy, Tytti Sirola, CEO of Bluet Floating Solutions Oy Ltd., Gareth Evans, MD of Cheshire-based Padel Ventures, and Paul Danson, Founder of Imagineering Global.
The clubhouse designs boast not only three floating padel tennis courts, but also social areas in the clubhouse fitting up to 100 guests, as well as a bar and kitchen and a retail shop “selling all the essentials for the sport, including rackets, balls, clothing, and shoes”.
What is more, guests are already able to enjoy Wyld Sauna, the UK’s first floating sauna at Princes Dock, which opened in November 2024.
The proposed opening date has been announced as Autumn 2025, with the exact date not yet confirmed.
What is padel tennis and why is it so popular?
Padel tennis is considered as the “fastest-growing sport in the world“, and is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash and is typically played in doubles. A highly social sport, it’s played on smaller courts with shorter games, accessible for all ages and skill levels, adding to its growing popularity.
The UK currently boasts over 700 Padel courts, however, Liverpool Waters will be the first floating Padel facility in the UK.
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.”
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.”