Formby Set to Get Brand-New Padel Court at Duke Street Park

Sefton Council has agreed Heads of Terms for a partnership with Sefton Padel to develop and manage brand new padel facilities at three sites across the Borough.  

Major Investment in Local Parks

Subject to obtaining planning consent, eleven new padel courts will be developed as part of a six-figure investment programme. They will be located at Victoria Park in Southport, Coronation Park in Crosby and at Formby’s Duke Street Park. Some of the new courts will be covered courts to allow for year-round play.  

Additionally, nine existing traditional tennis courts will be refurbished to improve facilities for existing and new tennis players. 

Work would commence on the first of these projects later this year following planning consent approval.

What is Padel?

With its origins in Mexico, Padel is a racquet sport, similar to tennis but played on smaller, enclosed courts. Racquets and balls are also smaller than in tennis and players can bounce shots off the walls.  

Sefton Based Company to Lead Development

Founded and owned by local entrepreneur Paul McComb, Sefton Padel is a new Sefton company. After a competitive procurement process, the Council has appointed Sefton Padel to lead on the development, delivery, and long-term operation of these facilities. 

Sefton Padel’s commitment to the local community and local economy to community engagement includes free introductory sessions for local schools, holiday coaching camps for children and collaboration with local tradespeople and suppliers.

Sefton Council Leader Cllr Marion Atkinson said: “I am delighted that we are working with a new Sefton-based business to deliver this exciting development, which will give people across the Borough opportunity to take part in the fast-growing sport of padel.”

“Padel is a sport that attracts a wide range of people from school-age to older residents looking to stay active and we are looking forward to working with Sefton Padel to ensure that is accessible and affordable for local people.” 

“In line with our commitment to making sport widely and affordably accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds, our partnership includes a commitment to working closely with nearby schools to enable free access at selected times and to offer free trial sessions at discounted rates for young people, NHS workers and low-income households.”  

“All three sites will be delivered and maintained to a high standard. They will include modern technology such as secure smart entry systems and automated lighting. Along with the refurbished tennis courts, the new facilities will help the Council ensure Sefton’s parks are vibrant, sustainable places that meet the needs of today’s communities.”

Cllr Atkinson continued: “I’m also so pleased we are supporting a new Sefton-based business through this exciting initiative, which will help make the best possible use of some currently underutilised public spaces.”

“By working with Sefton Padel, this investment will create new jobs, generate income for the Council, support health and wellbeing and help maximise our borough’s assets.”  

Paul McComb, Director of Sefton Padel, said:“We’re thrilled to be working in partnership with Sefton Council and with local volunteers to bring this fantastic new offering to Sefton – providing high-quality padel facilities that everyone in the community can enjoy.”

“Subject to planning approval, we’re aiming to open our first site in Spring 2026.”

“In the meantime, local residents and businesses interested in receiving updates on membership options, booking details and site developments will be able to follow our progress at www.seftonpadel.com.”

Community Involvement

All sites will be subject to planning approval. Consultations with local communities will take place as part of the development process in the coming months.  

Hannah Duffy from volunteer group, Friends of Alexandra and Coronation Park said: “We’re excited to begin working with Sefton Padel, the council’s chosen Padel partner for this fantastic new chapter at Coronation Park. We raised the idea of securing a partner to create padel facilities with the Council in 2024, and we’re delighted to have had the opportunity to work together to make this a reality. Being part of the selection process was a privilege, and we’re confident that Sefton Padel shares our ambition to create a lively, inclusive space that brings lasting value to the community.”

“Padel is growing rapidly in popularity, and we’re thrilled to see it coming to the park. It will open the space up to new users, provide a boost to local businesses, help energise the local area, and offer something fresh and exciting for residents and visitors alike.”

“Alongside our current initiatives like developing an accessible playground and restoring the lake this project adds to the momentum of positive change. The future of Coronation Park is looking brighter than ever.”