Story added: 10th July 2025

The Nest set to expand with three community focused padel courts

The Foundation is excited to announce the submission of planning permission for Phase 4 of The Nest’s development – the introduction of three brand-new padel courts, developed in partnership with Chaplin Farrant and RUA.

The milestone represents a major step forward to the site’s continued evolution as a hub for accessible and community-led sport and the Foundation are currently seeking funding investment to support the project.

What is Padel?

Padel is one of the fastest-growing racquet sports in the world, celebrated for its sociability and inclusivity. The new courts will be open to all, with a focus on removing barriers to participation and encouraging people of all backgrounds and abilities to get involved.

Plans include:

• Two covered courts and one outdoor court 
• Racket hire from The Store
• Changing, social areas, and indoor viewing
• Outdoor table tennis and vending spaces

Located next to the popular Challenge Woods, the courts will have the capacity for 800 users per week and are projected to welcome over 40,000 visitors annually. They are designed to bring together families, individuals, businesses and community groups in a safe, welcoming environment.

Dedicated sessions to support the community

Dedicated sessions and new programming will be created to ensure the courts serve a wide range of users, including:

• Inclusive coaching and disability padel sessions
• Weekly sessions and holiday camps for children and young people
• Inactive older people
• Supporting people with Mental health challenges
• Subsidised access for underrepresented and targeted groups

In addition, the Foundation’s Youth Voice Council are fully engaged in co-developing new programmes that will enable more young people to engage in the sport whilst addressing community issues.

This inclusive approach aims to improve physical activity rates, particularly in Broadland where 17.8% of residents are inactive, and where inactivity is higher in deprived areas, among older adults, and people with disabilities. As the fastest growing sport in the world, it will also address the lack of inclusive padel courts in the Norwich area.

A shared vision for a healthier, more connected future

“The expansion of padel courts at The Nest represents a bold investment in health, inclusion and opportunity” said Jackie Thornton, Director of Strategy and Development.

“We are constantly evolving The Nest with the view to reduce isolation, support mental wellbeing, promote physical activity, and offer a safe, inspiring space for people of all ages and backgrounds.”

With planning now submitted and support being sought from funders and stakeholders, the Foundation is calling on the community to help bring this ambitious vision to life — creating a space where young people can grow, families can connect, and everyone can thrive.

If you would like further information, please contact [email protected].