New Corby padel 'destination' will open in early 2027 hoping to be 'fantastic addition to the town'

The facility will be built following the conversion of an unused industrial unit in Arkwright Road on the Willowbrook estate, turning the space into a new ‘flagship’ indoor padel and recreational centre.

While the four full-size padel courts and a singles courts will be the business’ main draw, also included in the plans for the unit are a glass squash court developed in collaboration with England Squash, a reformer Pilates studio, a dedicated fitness space featuring spin bikes, and a recovery and wellness spa.

Without a Padel has plans for competitive padel and squash matches, coaching sessions and taster days.

Andy Bissell, founder of Without A Padel, said: "We've always wanted to create something that's about more than just playing padel. It's a sport that's growing incredibly quickly and we think there's a real opportunity to bring it to mid-size towns like Corby and give people access to something they might otherwise have to travel further afield for.

"We want this to be somewhere people can come and be active, try something new and socialise. There's a lot going into the centre and we're really looking forward to opening the doors and showing residents of Corby what we've been working on.

“The aim is to create somewhere that offers something for everyone, whether they're a regular sports player or simply looking for something new to do in Corby.”

Padel is a fast-growing sport similar to tennis, albeit on a smaller, enclosed court akin to squash and played in doubles.

Last year, the number of active players of padel had surpassed 35 million globally, with a 16.1per cent increase in clubs, a 15.2 per cent rise in court space, according to its governing body, the International Padel Federation.

Facilities have been popping up all across Northamptonshire in places such as Grendon, Podington, Oundle and Kettering, with new courts currently under construction at Kettering Leisure Village.

Without a Padel also plans to house facilities including a golf simulator, interactive darts, pool tables, table tennis and a bar and social spaces.

The business plans to host social events and community activities, and hopes to create opportunities for local businesses and food vendors to get involved in events at the venue.

The centre is expected to open in mid-January, with a limited number of Diamond and Platinum memberships being offered ahead of the launch, which give early members access to exclusive discounts, free sessions and priority court bookings.

Cllr Mark Pengelly added: “I’ve been following this project with great interest over the past few months, and I’m delighted to see it coming to fruition. It’s going to be a fantastic addition to the town and a real asset to the local community, providing new opportunities for people to get active, socialise and enjoy sport.

"I wish the team every success for the future.”

Gold memberships cost £125 ahead of opening and include 10-day advanced court booking, one free off-peak court, 10 per cent discount at the bar and pool table play and 10 per cent discount on off-peak padel.

The platinum membership, costing £200 grants 14-day advanced court booking, two free off-peak court sessions, 30 per cent discount on off-peak padel and pool table play, as well as the 10 per cent discount at the bar.

The highest, diamond membership includes 15-day advanced court booking, three free off-peak court sessions, 20 per cent discount on peak court sessions, free racket rental, 50 per cent discount on off-peak padel, 15 per cent discount at the bar plus free welcome drink and 50 per cent discount on pool table play, all for £400. Only 75 diamond passes are available.

More information on memberships can be found online here.