Padel courts set to replace former Shepherd's Bush cinema
Padel courts are set to replace a former cinema at the West 12 Shopping Centre in Shepherd's Bush after councillors approved plans for the new sports facility.
The Hammersmith and Fulham Planning and Development Control Committee met on Tuesday 13 October 2026 and gave the green light for the change of use of part of the second floor of the West 12 Shopping Centre from a cinema to a padel court centre. The former Vue cinema, which closed its doors in June 2026, will be transformed into 11 padel courts, complete with ancillary café and toilet facilities.
The proposed hours of operation are from 6 am to midnight from Sunday to Thursday, and 6 am to 1 am on Fridays and Saturdays.
As part of the Section 106 agreement, a contribution of £68,000 towards community safety measures was agreed. This contribution will also fund a comprehensive community and school management plan. This plan will include, as a minimum, a disability and inclusive sports program, junior participation programs, partnerships with local schools and community organizations, and opportunities for participation by diverse local communities, with a full pathway into the sport and community. The plan also includes community engagement events such as open days, free taster sessions, community tournaments, and engagement with charities and local organizations to provide opportunities for residents to access facilities and participate in the sport without an initial financial commitment.
Ward Councillor Ross Melton welcomed the development, particularly the negotiation of the community safety fund and the proposed school partnerships, highlighting the premium on accessible sports facilities within the community. The centre is expected to offer affordable routes into the sport
and discounted court access, coaching sessions and after-school activities during off-peak hours
for local schools and community organizations. Introductory coach-led sessions with equipment provided and discounted follow-on membership benefits are also planned, ensuring cost is not a significant barrier for first-time participants.
While the plans mention junior participation programmes
and introductory coach-led sessions,
there is no specific mention of professional coaching or leagues being offered at the new facility.
Councillors also approved a verbal update regarding a small payment of approximately £2,200 towards the administration of the Section 106 commitments. This information can be found in the Public reports pack 13th-Oct-2026 19.00 Planning and Development Control Committee.
During the meeting, concerns were raised about the potential for noise and disturbance, but officers were satisfied that the sound insulation of the building, combined with the proposed operating hours, would mitigate any adverse impacts.
Further details on the committee meeting can be found in the Agenda frontsheet 13th-Oct-2026 19.00 Planning and Development Control Committee and the Minutes of Previous Meeting.