JUST PADEl bolton
Just Padel Bolton: Delivering Bolton’s First Ever Indoor Padel Facility
Studio FRI is proud to have secured full planning permission for the development of Bolton’s first ever padel tennis facility, located at Unit 2A, Bolton Central Business Park, Nelson Street, BL3 2JJ. Delivered on behalf of Just Padel-the North West’s leading padel operator-this groundbreaking scheme transforms a long-vacant industrial unit (Use Class B2/B8) into a vibrant new leisure hub (Use Class E(d)) featuring five premium indoor padel courts, reception/lounge, and full changing and shower facilities.
As the first padel facility in Bolton, this project represents a significant milestone for the town’s sports and leisure offering. It marks Just Padel’s third North West venue-following the successful delivery of Just Padel Preston and Just Padel Blackpool-cementing their position as the region’s number one padel operator. Studio FRI is proud to be the architect behind every Just Padel site to date.
Overcoming Planning Policy to Unlock Community Value
Studio FRI led the planning and design process for this flagship facility, navigating a number of complex policy challenges to secure full consent. The site is located within a designated employment area in central Bolton, where leisure uses are typically resisted. However, by preparing a robust and detailed planning application-including a Planning Statement, Noise Impact Assessment, and Transport Statement-Studio FRI successfully demonstrated the wider economic, health, and social value of the proposal.
We argued that the development would bring a long-vacant unit back into use, generate local employment, and deliver significant community benefit by introducing a new, inclusive sport to the town. This evidence-based approach resulted in a positive planning outcome-one that enabled Just Padel to bring its proven model to Bolton and deliver the town’s first dedicated padel facility.
Five Indoor Padel Courts, Purpose-Built for Performance
The new facility offers five purpose-built indoor padel courts, designed to meet international playing standards and accommodate year-round usage. Players benefit from a modern, weatherproof environment, pre-bookable access via Just Padel’s digital platform, and high-quality supporting amenities including changing rooms, lounge area, and reception.
Studio FRI worked closely with our client to maximise the efficiency and user experience of the layout, adapting the existing industrial building to create a dynamic and welcoming leisure space. Our architectural solutions balanced function, spatial quality, and regulatory compliance-delivering a cost-effective and visually cohesive design.
A Strategic Addition to Bolton’s Regeneration Vision
As with all Just Padel venues, the Bolton site contributes to a broader urban regeneration strategy. The project aligns with the Council’s goals of revitalising underused employment land, promoting healthy lifestyles, and expanding local sport and leisure infrastructure. The success of this planning application reflects the increasing recognition of padel as a fast-growing, inclusive sport capable of delivering measurable social value.
Studio FRI’s track record in this sector has made us the trusted partner for change of use sports schemes across Lancashire and Greater Manchester. Our planning-led approach, combined with architectural expertise, ensures our clients secure consents for transformative projects that enhance local communities and breathe life into vacant properties.
Studio FRI: Preston-Based Experts in Architecture, Planning, and Sport-Led Regeneration
Based in Preston and operating across the North West, Studio FRI is the region’s go-to architectural and planning consultancy for residential, commercial, leisure, and regeneration projects. Our team has delivered successful applications for some of the most innovative developments in the region-including all three Just Padel venues-demonstrating our ability to turn complex sites into viable, community-driven schemes.
Whether you’re seeking to convert an existing building, unlock planning permission in a protected area, or deliver a bespoke sports or leisure facility, Studio FRI offers the expertise, insight, and creative leadership you need.