A WAREHOUSE in Christchurch is undergoing a transformation into an indoor facility for one of the globe’s rapidly expanding racquet sports. Padel, which combines elements of both tennis and squash, is typically played in doubles within an enclosed area. Additionally, the space located at Unit 1-2, Priory Industrial Park, will offer pickleball, a blend of […]
A WAREHOUSE in Christchurch is undergoing a transformation into an indoor facility for one of the globe’s rapidly expanding racquet sports.
Padel, which combines elements of both tennis and squash, is typically played in doubles within an enclosed area.
Additionally, the space located at Unit 1-2, Priory Industrial Park, will offer pickleball, a blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, also predominantly a doubles game.
Newly constructed super panoramic padel courts and specially designed acrylic pickleball courts are being set up.
Smeda Sports aims to launch the venue on Airspeed Road this month (December), after securing a 10-year lease for the 15,418 sq ft location, which encompasses ground and first-floor offices along with 24 parking spots.
The property consultancy Vail Williams, boasting an office in Bournemouth, represented the property’s private owner.
Bryony Thompson, a partner at Vail Williams, remarked: “We’ve observed a significant uptick in the demand for indoor padel facilities in recent months, and we’re delighted to have played a part in Smeda Sports bringing these two favored racquet sports to Christchurch, which are sure to thrive.”
“Padel is poised to attract the more athletically inclined, while pickleball, using a paddle and a wiffle ball, is suitable for all skill levels and ages.”
Smeda Sports, which also offers merchandise for pickleball, padel, and sportswear and accessories, plans to enhance offerings with gym equipment tailored for strength and conditioning specific to pickleball and padel, alongside yoga and pilates classes.
The organization is led by two directors, Tania Smeda and Karen Smith.
They expressed: “Following a substantial investment in the warehouse lease and conversion of courts, we eagerly anticipate introducing padel and pickleball to newcomers in Christchurch, both young and old, while fostering local employment.”
“We extend our gratitude to Vail Williams for ‘serving up’ an excellent sports venue for us here on the south coast, conveniently located for patrons from the BCP area and New Forest.”
Priory Industrial Park encompasses 21 units totaling about 123,000 sq ft. Unit 10 is available for lease and spans 11,921 sq ft.
The launch of an indoor facility for popular racquet sports in Christchurch is a fantastic development for the local community! It provides a much-needed space for enthusiasts of tennis, badminton, squash, and more to play year-round, regardless of weather conditions. This facility will not only promote physical fitness but also encourage social interaction and skill development among players of all ages. Exciting times ahead for racquet sports in the area!