Poole: Sports centre planned for former park and ride land

Poole-based Cross Court Padel is looking to use the empty land as indoor padel courts, a sport similar to tennis that is gaining popularity on the continent. 

Consent is sought from BCP Council to use the site over the next five years for seven courts, changing rooms, a reception, shop and small café. 

Drawing inspiration from Spain, the padel courts could be joining just 450 other courts in the UK – compared to more than 20,000 in Spain. 

CGI of the new courts (Image: AJC Architectural Services)

Padel is believed to be one of the fastest growing sports in the world, and organisers are anticipating courts in Poole would be ideal for players of all ages. 

A statement by Pure Town Planning, on behalf of Cross Court Padel, said the sport is best described as a combination of tennis, squash and racquetball. 

It added: “Reasons it has become so popular is that it is simple to play and a great social sport for the whole family.  

“Across the whole world padel is growing and an incredible fast rate, especially in Spain where it is now the second most played sport (just behind football) with over six million participants regularly playing the game.” 

Played in a court that is smaller and more intimate than a tennis court, padel also plays in doubles across the net. 

Creekmoor park and ride was last used as a Covid test centre

However, players can use the back and side walls to play off resulting in longer rallies. Also, padel is started with an underarm serve, making it easier for all players. 

The statement added: “Children are often seen playing with their families as it is easy to learn, helps hand-eye coordination and aides in skills like teamwork.  

“It can be especially good for people that can no longer play tennis or squash due to the nature of these sports where injuries can occur, however padel is much easier on the body and as a results far fewer injuries are likely. There is a higher female participation than the majority of other sports.” 

(Image: Staff)

Last used as a Covid-19 test site in April 2022, Creekmoor park and ride has been untouched since with the exception of anti-trespass measures including boulders and mounds of dirt being installed at the entrances in early 2023. 

BCP Council has previously said discussions around the short-term use of the site as a park and ride service were ongoing, but that it could be late 2024 until any such plans are adopted. 

Cross Court Padel already has a website set up, teasing a new venture later this year. 

BCP Council’s planners will decide the courts in due course.