Ignite Padel has opened Liverpool’s first indoor padel centre in Speke as demand for the sport continues to grow across the city.
The new facility, which opened on December 1, includes six indoor courts and four outdoor covered courts.
It’s the Liverpool-based company’s third site in the region, following its first venue on Queens Drive in April 2025 and a second in Ellesmere Port in September.
The Speke site was originally planned to have 12 courts, which would have made it the UK’s biggest indoor padel facility, before plans were changed.
Stephen Broad, partner at Ignite Padel, told Confidentials Liverpool: “(We) had a change of heart for several reasons.
“Firstly, we wanted to be able to offer more viewing spaces for big tournaments with the FIP.
“We also want the local community to be able to use the centre as a hub for a range of different services. From community events to academy training.”
Mr Broad added that the long-term goal is for the Speke centre to operate 24 hours a day, but for now it’s open from 6am to midnight.
Former pro Jay Hemmings said Liverpool had needed more padel facilities for a long time, particularly indoors.
He said: “More indoor or covered courts are needed. Like tennis does too. Both are in the same boat.
“But padel will get more sooner because it’s new here, and people are happy to pay a premium price.”
The UK average off-peak court hire is around £30, and peak time can reach £80 in some places, according to the BBC.
Indoor court prices at Speke start at £44 for a one-hour booking, and £88 for two hours.
Despite the cost, demand remains high, as Ignite Padel’s website shows that Speke’s peak time slots are fully booked until December 18.
The rapid growth of the sport has prompted further plans across the region.
Place North West reported earlier this year that Jurgen Klopp’s Padel FC intend to bring nine courts to Wavertree in what would be the company’s first UK site.
Sefton Council announced plans for 11 new courts as part of a six-figure investment, while Peel Waters received approval for the UK’s first floating padel courts at Liverpool Waters.
With new facilities opening and more planned, Liverpool is continuing to match the growing demand for padel.
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