Storage unit could provide new home for popular sport

Plans for a new padel tennis development in Washington have been submitted to council development bosses.

- by Chris Binding

Sunderland City Council's planning department has received an application for unit two at Crowther Road in Crowther Industrial Estate.

Plans are seeking permission to change the use of the building from “storage” to an “indoor sports facility”.

Submitted planning documents confirm the proposed development is linked to padel tennis, a type of tennis played with specialist balls and rackets in a small enclosed court, where walls are part of the court and can be used in play.

In recent years, the sport has gained popularity nationally with dedicated plans for padel tennis facilities emerging across the North East, including at sites in Sunderland and South Tyneside.

Four padel courts are proposed at the Washington site along with associated changing facilities, toilets, showers and a reception, office, staff room and seating area.