Work is now underway on six state of the art panoramic covered padel courts at Queen’s College Taunton, delivered in partnership with Smash Padel. 

Construction has now begun, with groundworks progressing and the court structures starting to emerge on site.

Once complete, the new padel centre will provide year round, all weather access to one of the fastest growing sports in the world. The six covered courts will be fully embedded within Queen’s sports provision while also operating as an inclusive community hub, open to the public and welcoming players of all ages and abilities.

Kim Dawkins, Bursar at Queen’s, commented:

“Seeing the courts now taking shape on site is incredibly exciting. This project reflects our commitment to providing world class sporting facilities while ensuring they are accessible to the wider community. Smash Padel are not just a partner but a valued part of our community, and it is fantastic to see the build now underway.”

Construction will continue in phases, with canopy installation scheduled for February, followed by the courts, pavilion and landscaping in the spring. Subject to contractor schedules, Queen’s and Smash Padel are working towards an opening in June 2026.

Tom Bell, Director of Sport at Queen’s, added:

“Our pupils will have an incredible opportunity to play and learn padel right here on site, fully integrated into PE, co curricular sport and performance training. It is a brilliant sport for building teamwork, confidence and fitness, and we are excited to see it grow at Queen’s and across Taunton.”

The site was recently visited by local councillor Connor Sollé, who shared his enthusiasm for the project:

“After years of seeing the gap for padel in the county, there was no better place to bring it to life than Queen’s. It’s finally where it’s meant to be, making the county town shine once again. I’m incredibly proud to be part of this journey. This is exactly why I do what I do. I hope everyone can enjoy this brilliant sport in all its positives.”

Rupert Taylor, CEO of Smash Padel, said:

“We’re incredibly excited to be bringing padel to Taunton. This site will give the local community a fantastic new place to play sport, stay active and try something new. While the courts are located at Queen’s College Taunton, they’re designed first and foremost to be open to everyone, all year round.”

Alongside the new sporting facilities, the project includes environmental enhancements such as biodiversity measures and carefully designed lighting to protect local wildlife, reflecting Queen’s commitment to sustainability.

For further updates about the development of the Smash Padel courts, please visit Smash Padel’s website.