A new sports venue, ‘Just Padel’, has officially opened in Preston this week, transforming the long-vacant Staples Office Outlet on Corporation Street into a thriving hub for the increasingly popular sport of padel.
After standing empty for five years, the prominent building has been given a fresh lease of life, much to the delight of local sports enthusiasts.
Padel on the Rise
Padel, a racquet sport that blends elements of tennis and squash, has been gaining rapid popularity across the UK. Known for its accessibility and social appeal, padel is played in doubles on an enclosed court roughly a third of the size of a tennis court. The game’s unique glass walls allow for dynamic and exciting rallies, making it an engaging option for players of all skill levels.
The sport has seen a surge in participation, with venues popping up nationwide to cater to growing demand. Just Padel’s new facility in Preston marks an important step in increasing access to the sport in the North West.
What’s Inside Just Padel?
The newly opened venue boasts multiple high-quality padel courts, complete with modern lighting and professional-standard playing surfaces. Designed to provide a premium playing experience, the courts cater to everyone from beginners looking for a casual game to experienced players keen to hone their skills.
ABOVE: Architects StudioFRI drawings of inside (c)
Alongside the courts, Just Padel features a welcoming reception area, comfortable viewing spaces for spectators, and on-site facilities to enhance the experience. The venue is also available for private hire, making it a perfect location for corporate events, team-building activities, and special occasions.
Inside: Just Padel Preston (c) Central Radio
A spokesperson for the venue tells us:
"From a forgotten and neglected building to a vibrant hub of energy and excitement, this journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. When we first stepped into this space, it was far from the vision we held in our minds. Faced with countless challenges—squatters, structural issues, and obstacles at every turn—we could have given up. But instead, we chose to embrace the hard work, the setbacks, and the transformation process."
"What stands here today is more than just an indoor padel facility. It’s a symbol of resilience, vision, and the belief that something incredible can rise from even the most difficult circumstances. Every corner of this space tells a story of dedication and determination, and we’re proud to share it with our community."
IMAGE: Inside before the refurbishment showing years of neglect (c) Just Padel
"At Just Padel, we are passionate about bringing the fast-paced and exhilarating sport of padel to our community. Whether you're a seasoned player or completely new to the game, our goal is to create an inclusive and fun environment where players of all levels can thrive. Founded with a love for sport and a commitment to quality, we offer state-of-the-art padel courts, professional coaching, and a vibrant community of players."
Pricing and Membership Options
Just Padel offers a flexible pricing structure for both members and non-members. A 90-minute match costs £14 during peak hours and £12 off-peak for members, while non-members will pay £34 during peak times and £23 off-peak. Peak hours are defined as weekdays after 5pm and weekends between 8am and 6:30pm.
With its affordable rates and top-tier facilities, Just Padel aims to make the sport more accessible while fostering a strong local padel community. Whether players are looking for a friendly match, professional coaching, or a venue for their next event, the new Preston location is set to become a go-to destination.
As padel continues to grow in the UK, venues like Just Padel are at the forefront of the movement, providing more opportunities for players to enjoy this fast-paced and social sport.
You can find out more information by visiting their website https://justpadel.uk/