Belmont’s first-ever padel courts could be coming to the London Cancer Hub this summer.
Social Sports Society, the established London-based padel operator behind similar successful ventures like Wembley Park Padel, has resubmitted a planning application to Sutton Council for a change of use on the land and are calling on residents to show their support. The four-court facility will transform a currently vacant space within the site and form part of Aviva and Socius’ vision for the development of the London Cancer Hub.
As one of the UK’s fastest-growing sports, padel is an accessible and social game for people of all ages and abilities to get active. Combining elements of tennis and squash, it is played on smaller courts to encourage more creative play and doubles matches; creating an engaging experience that’s quick and easy to pick up and enjoy, regardless of skill.
The site, which is expected to open in Summer 2025, will support dozens of jobs and provide a new recreational outlet for local residents, London Cancer Hub employees and visitors alike.
Designed to improve community cohesion, the courts will prioritise advanced bookings for local residents and London Cancer Hub employees who can benefit from discounted rates. The facility can also be used as a social hub for other activities, including yoga, table tennis and running clubs.
The plans for the facility have been developed based on feedback collected during London Cancer Hub’s public engagement events. Featuring four fully demountable courts, the padel facility will blend vibrant colours and natural aesthetics with eco-friendly materials, such as repurposed wood for the reception and changing areas, alongside planting to enhance natural surroundings.
Based on community feedback earlier in the year, the revised plans will use sympathetic lighting and see the courts covered by a canopy to mitigate any light or noise pollution.
As part of the submission, the Social Sports Society has also outlined plans to maximise social impact through the facilities, with initiatives including free play sessions, coaching courses for at-risk youth and partnerships with schools to provide free padel facilities.
“Sport has an incredible power to unite people and padel is a perfect example of how an accessible, social game can transform underutilised spaces into thriving community hubs,” said Tom Rooney, CEO, Social Sports Society.
“By bringing people together through physical activity, we’re able to counter social isolation, create real connections and improve health and happiness outcomes right in the heart of neighbourhoods. We’re thrilled to serve up our plans to bring this vibrant sport to the London Cancer Hub.”
The courts are planned as a temporary feature at the London Cancer Hub, for up to seven years, while the long-term development of the wider London Cancer Hub development progresses. Built with adaptability in mind, the structures can be relocated or repurposed as needed.
Daniel May, Development Director at Socius, continued: “Having engaged with over 4,500 people last year as part of our wider plans for the area, many people expressed a wish to have more opportunities to exercise at the London Cancer Hub.
“The padel courts will be a real asset for the community, which is why we’re encouraging the community to show their support for this exciting new facility where they can get active, socialise and have fun.”
The developers are inviting Sutton residents to support the initiative by sharing their feedback on Sutton Council’s planning portal. To lend your support, visit the Sutton Council planning portal and search for DM2025/00336 or visit https://planningregister.sutton.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails
For more information on the London Cancer Hub, please visit https://cancerhub.london/