Padel Nova will officially open on Saturday 23rd May at Rivermead Drive in Westlea, becoming the town’s second major padel-only venue.
The indoor centre has been backed by local investors Nilesh Chavda, Vivek Odedra and Chris Pomphrey, bringing together experience from the property, hospitality and commercial sectors.
Nilesh Chavda and Vivek Odedra are longstanding Swindon business figures connected to N&B Foods, the foodservice wholesaler based in Westlea. Chris Pomphrey is widely known within Swindon’s property industry through his work in land and new homes and he has spent more than two decades operating across the Swindon and Wiltshire property sector.
At its heart are three premium panoramic padel courts, designed to offer a modern playing environment for both beginners and experienced players.
Beyond the courts, the centre includes a bar and café area, a mezzanine viewing space, darts, pool and table tennis facilities, conference space, changing rooms and showers.
Organisers say the club will feature what is believed to be the area’s first fully accessible wheelchair-friendly padel court, with inclusivity forming a key part of the project’s vision.
Club manager Dave Morris said accessibility and community engagement are central to the club’s ethos.
“Our aim at Padel Nova is to create a padel club that is truly accessible for everyone, regardless of age, background, or ability,” he said.
“We want to build a strong community around the sport and provide opportunities for local schools, young people, families, and individuals who may never have considered padel before.
“This is about creating a welcoming space where everyone feels they belong.”
The club says it is already working to establish partnerships with local schools and youth organisations, with plans for junior coaching sessions and community programmes aimed at introducing more young people to the sport.
Padel has emerged as one of the fastest-growing sports in Britain in recent years, with participation figures rising sharply.
According to the Lawn Tennis Association, around 860,000 adults and juniors played padel during 2025, compared with approximately 400,000 the previous year and just 15,000 in 2019.
Tim Howe, founder of The Longevity Games, said:
“Facilities like this are exactly what Swindon needs, sport that is social, accessible and sustainable, helping people stay active and connected for life rather than just for competition.”
The number of courts nationwide has also increased dramatically, from fewer than 70 in 2019 to more than 1,500 by the end of 2025.
The sport combines elements of tennis and squash and is played on smaller enclosed courts, making it easier for beginners to learn while remaining competitive and social.
Swindon has quickly established itself as one of the South West’s emerging padel hubs following the arrival of Slazenger Padel Club in the town.
The addition of Padel Nova further strengthens the town’s position within the rapidly expanding leisure market.
Visitors will be able to tour the facilities and see the courts during the official opening day on Saturday 23rd May, when the doors open to the public for the first time.
