Plans have been revealed to repurpose the historic Roundhouse in Leeds into a cutting-edge sports facility, marking a significant shift in the utilization of the iconic Victorian building. The Grade II-listed Roundhouse, dating back to 1847 and once serving as a hub for Victorian steam locomotives, is poised for a makeover into a padel tennis centre, offering both indoor and outdoor courts for enthusiasts of the sport.
The proposed project, led by UK Padel Club Ltd, aims to introduce padel tennis—a fusion of tennis and squash—to the heart of Leeds. The development proposes the installation of five indoor and five outdoor courts within the Roundhouse premises, providing ample opportunities for both casual players and enthusiasts to engage in the rapidly growing sport.
Leeds City Council’s city plans panel recently convened to deliberate on the revised plans, ultimately opting to defer and delegate approval to the chief planning officer. One of the key discussions centred around the allocation of space within the site. The original proposal included provisions for housing, with the outdoor area earmarked for up to 310 homes under the city’s Site Allocations Plan. However, the revised plan reallocates half of this space for the padel tennis centre, scaling back the residential development component.
During the deliberations, concerns were raised regarding the impact of the project on housing plans. A representative expressed reservations about the reduction in housing allocation, questioning its implications. However, the panel reassured that the city’s housing targets remain on track, with substantial developments underway across other city centre sites.
Addressing the longevity of the proposed sports facility, planning officers emphasised that the permission granted would be valid for a limited period of ten years. This provision ensures flexibility for potential future developments, including the utilisation of the land for housing purposes in the long term.
Crucially, the proposal garnered support from Historic England, which praised the adaptive reuse of the Roundhouse as a leisure facility. In a statement, Historic England described the project as “very interesting,” highlighting its minimal physical impact on the historic building. The endorsement from Historic England underscores the careful consideration given to preserving the architectural integrity of the site while accommodating contemporary recreational needs.
As the plans for the Roundhouse’s transformation into a padel tennis centre progress, stakeholders remain committed to striking a balance between heritage preservation and modern-day recreation. With a focus on sustainable urban development, the project reflects the evolving landscape of Leeds and its commitment to revitalising historic landmarks for the benefit of the community.
In conclusion, the proposed conversion of the Roundhouse heralds an exciting chapter in the history of this venerable Leeds landmark. By embracing innovative uses for heritage buildings, the city reaffirms its commitment to preserving its rich architectural legacy while embracing the diverse recreational needs of its residents. As the project moves forward, stakeholders are poised to witness the seamless integration of tradition and modernity, ensuring that the Roundhouse continues to hold a prominent place in Leeds’ cultural tapestry for generations to come.
