Bookings are now open for Sutton’s first-ever padel courts, which will bring lasting benefits to the local area through local job creation, free charity access, discounted resident sessions and youth play programmes.
With construction nearing completion, the new four-court facility, which will launch in October, will be operated by Social Sports Society. The courts will transform a previously unused corner of the London Cancer District site into a vibrant destination for sport and wellbeing.
Working in partnership with Aviva, Socius and Populate, the courts activate unused space within the District and form part of the wider £1 billion vision to create a world-leading district for cancer research in the heart of Sutton.
The plan for the courts, which received planning approval from Sutton Council earlier in the year, was shaped by feedback from more than 4,500 residents, gathered through extensive community engagement. Led by Meeting Place, the public consultations revealed a strong appetite for accessible health and leisure amenities, a demand which this new facility seeks to address.
Joss Taylor is Head of Activation at Populate, a company which helps investors to maximise the potential and social value from their buildings and spaces.
Commenting on the padel courts, Joss said: “Public feedback has been at the heart of shaping this initiative and these new courts directly respond to calls for more on-site amenities.
“The facility will bring a wide range of health benefits and youth coaching opportunities for people from across Sutton and beyond, all within a space that had previously been unused.”
Discounted court rates will be offered for London Cancer District staff and those living close to the site. In addition, a total of 40 hours of free court time will be guaranteed each week for local students and charitable organisations, of which, 10 hours will be provided for Harris Academy students to use.
Joe Cutress, Director of Sport at Harris Academy Sutton, said: “We’re just as excited as the students to get out on the new courts and play padel, which will be a fantastic addition to our sports provision. Compared to other PE Departments in the Borough, we’ve pulled the short straw with no green space, so we’re always looking for new and engaging ways to inspire students to be active. Padel fits the bill perfectly. Having played, I’m not surprised by its growing popularity.
“To have this built on the doorstep is a fantastic opportunity for our students, who can’t wait to take advantage of our dedicated hours and would love the opportunity to use the courts more frequently. We’re proud to be part of a project that enhances sporting opportunities and supports the health and wellbeing of our children and the local community.”
Keith Kehoe has been appointed as the facility’s General Manager and will oversee its day-to-day operations. He commented: “The facility offers a fun, inclusive way for residents and visitors to stay active and connected. Whether players are receiving treatment at London Cancer District or studying and working here, we really want these courts to become a welcoming hub where people can get together whilst improving their health and wellbeing.”
The courts are now open for bookings, with play available from 1 October 2025. Residents with proof of a local postcode, alongside London Cancer District staff and patients, are eligible for discounted rates, which can be accessed via the online booking portal
Budding players are now able to book a court and coaching by downloading the Playtomic booking app and using the club search function to select ‘S3 Padel Sutton’: https://app.playtomic.com/?utm_source=web-2025
To learn more about the discount available to staff, patients and residents, please email: keith@socialsportssociety.com
The temporary facility, which will be in place for up to seven years, is designed to evolve alongside the wider, long-term development of the London Cancer District and is built from sustainable materials, including reclaimed wood.
Sophie White, Sector Head for Regeneration at Aviva Capital Partners, said: “We’re focused on investing to grow the economy, drive regeneration and support the creation of jobs and homes across the UK – objectives which align closely with our investment in Sutton. The new padel facility is an early example of how the London Cancer District will deliver lasting benefits to the local community.”
