Padel Accessibility in England: Closing the Gap

| Padel, Research
This graph shows the distribution of padel venues across England, grouped by socio-economic deciles using the Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD). Decile 1 represents the most deprived 10% of neighbourhoods, while Decile 10 represents the most affluent 10%. The data reveals that only 3% (6 venues) are located in the most deprived areas, compared to 18% (39 venues) in the most affluent areas. Padel provision in affluent areas is 6.5 times greater than in deprived areas, highlighting a significant accessibility gap. This disparity raises critical questions about the inclusivity of padel's growth in the UK and its potential to serve underserved communities.

New research we have just completed for our forthcoming UK Padel Report reveals that padel venues are 6.5 times more prevalent in England’s most affluent areas than in the most deprived areas (see graph). This analysis of padel accessibility in England uses the Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD), a government measure that ranks neighbourhoods based on factors such as income, health, education, and housing, to identify areas of relative deprivation. Decile one represents the most deprived 10% of neighbourhoods in England, while decile ten represents the most affluent 10%, highlighting the socio-economic divide.

This mirrors a pattern I witnessed during the introductory phase of the private UK fitness industry, where premium health clubs primarily served wealthier communities. Over time, the fitness industry adapted, with low-cost operators such as The Gym Group and PureGym transforming the market and bringing affordable access to underserved areas which unlocked a new and much larger market. But this evolution was not inevitable — it required bold and creative thinking from mission-driven entrepreneurs and investors, supported by forward-thinking landlords.

Padel Accessibility in England: A Challenge for Inclusive Growth

As padel grows in the UK, it faces a similar challenge. How can it be accessible across the nation and not perceived as a sport for affluent and already very active people? Importantly, will this need to be backed up by strategically targeted investment into less affluent neighbourhoods? What are your thoughts? What steps can the UK padel industry take to avoid reinforcing inequalities and ensure the sport grows inclusively across all neighbourhoods?

Forthcoming UK Padel Report: A Strategic Insight into Growth and Accessibility

Our forthcoming UK Padel Report, which will be published in February 2025, marks the first strategic investigation into how padel is emerging across the United Kingdom. This comprehensive report will explore the socio-economic dynamics shaping the sport’s growth, analyse major operators, and examine player motivations.

Investing and Developing Community Padel in England

I am keen to speak with organisations in Southern England that are looking to introduce affordable and accessible community-wide padel. We have a fully-funded solution and looking to repurpose land or buildings. Please contact me for a confidential discussion.