Planning sought for East Cork indoor padel centre 

A former industrial unit in Youghal could be transformed into a six-court indoor padel tennis centre under plans lodged with Cork County Council. 

Eoin Whyte Services Limited has applied for planning permission to convert part of the former Blackwater Shipping & Storage Ltd premises at Green’s Quay and Store St into an indoor recreation facility.

The proposed development would involve the partial change of use from light industry to a dedicated padel venue featuring six indoor courts, a café, and reception area, changing rooms, toilet facilities, seating areas, and alterations to the building’s exterior.

If approved, the development would add to the number of padel facilities planned or under construction across Cork as the fast-growing racket sport continues to attract new players.

Padel, which is played in doubles on an enclosed court smaller than a tennis court, has seen a surge in popularity in Ireland over the past two years. 

Existing facilities in Cork have reported strong demand, with peak-time bookings often filling days in advance.

The proposed Youghal facility would be the latest investment in the sport in the county, following permission for a major padel centre in Douglas and other proposals for courts in Bantry and Mallow.

Separately, Youghal Tennis Club has also secured permission for an outdoor padel court.

The latest proposal would see a vacant industrial building repurposed into a year-round indoor sports facility in the town.

Cork County Council is due to decide the application in the coming weeks. Members of the public have until July 23 to make submissions or observations on the plans.