Erewash Borough Council approved the scheme in March 2026. The approved plans cover six purpose-built padel courts with enclosing glass and mesh walls, retractable roofs to all courts and additional parking for football club and padel users.
The development is planned on the club site behind the North Stand, creating a dedicated padel zone alongside the existing football facilities. Earlier project information also set out access through the club reception and use of existing changing facilities, helping integrate the new courts into the wider ground rather than creating a completely separate venue.
A fast-growing sport with local demand.
Padel combines elements of tennis and squash. It is normally played as doubles on a smaller enclosed court, with the walls forming part of the game. Shorter solid rackets and an underarm serve make it accessible to new players while still offering a competitive sport for experienced players.
Planning information submitted for the Ilkeston scheme pointed to significant local demand, including club members reporting difficulty getting court time at nearby facilities because of the sport's popularity.
Supporting a sustainable football club.
For Ilkeston Town, the project is about more than adding another sport. The club has consistently spoken about making the ground active beyond Saturday afternoons and creating new income streams that support long-term sustainability.
At the club's June Fans Forum, chairman Andrew Nally highlighted the anticipated completion of the padel courts as an important development expected to increase revenue and help support ambitions on and off the pitch.
Football. Functions. Business. Padel.
The padel development sits alongside investment in the clubhouse, hospitality, functions, business events and the club's existing 4G football operation. Together, those facilities are helping turn the Microlise New Manor Ground into a venue used throughout the week.
See venue & facilitiesApproved and moving forward.
Planning permission has been granted and the club has subsequently described the padel centre development as moving towards construction. A confirmed public opening date and booking arrangements have not yet been announced, so we will update supporters and the local community when those details are available.