Empty supermarket to be transformed into padel courts

New padel courts are set to open in a former Tesco store as part of a shopping centre's revamp.

Padel Chippenham will consist of four courts and an interactive entertainment wall. The facility is set to open in September as part of Emery Gate shopping centre's development.

This project also includes 225 new homes being created at Emery Gate as part of a wider Chippenham Riverside scheme, which includes plans for shops, leisure facilities and restaurants.

Caroline Wall, project manager of the development, said: "This is a fantastic example of how town centre spaces can be used creatively to bring new experiences, energy and footfall into the heart of the community."

Calli Smith, head coach at Padel4All Basset Down in Swindon, said the courts would "fill a large hole along the M4 corridor" where there are currently limited padel facilities.

"Catchment for Padel Chippenham could be huge. I think it's a great way to add a social community setting to an already vibrant town, and it will certainly be a place I know lots of people will want to play," Smith said.

The padel courts are the first step in Chippenham Riverside's redevelopment.

Under the plans, the £5m revamp will connect the town's High Street with new routes between Island Park and the River Avon.

Councillor Ian Thorn, leader of Wiltshire Council, said: "It's positive to see initiatives planned that bring communities together and encourage people to be active.

"It's also encouraging to see the shopping centre owners exploring innovative ways to attract visitors while plans for the wider redevelopment of Emery Gate Shopping Centre continue to progress," Thorn added.

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