The courts will be built in Belmont, Sutton, following planning approval from Sutton Council, and will be located at the London Cancer Hub.
Social Sports Society, the operator behind Wembley Park Padel, will deliver the four-court facility, which is expected to open this summer.
Tom Rooney, chief executive of Social Sports Society, said: “We’re thrilled to have secured planning approval to bring padel to Belmont for the first time.
“With demand for padel growing rapidly, this project will help to deliver real benefits for the health and wellbeing of residents and visitors alike, bringing the community together in an inclusive space for all ages and abilities to enjoy.”
Construction will begin this month on the currently unused plot, with completion expected by July.
The courts are part of a wider £1 billion vision for the London Cancer Hub, led by Aviva Capital Partners and Socius, to develop a world-leading cancer research district.
Public consultation involving more than 4,500 residents and stakeholders identified a need for additional amenities and recreational space, informing the decision to include padel courts in the development.
The facility will support local employment and community engagement, offering 10 hours of free court access each week.
This will include free play sessions, coaching for at-risk youth, and partnerships with nearby schools such as Harris Academy.
Padel is a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis and squash.
It is played on an enclosed court roughly one-third the size of a tennis court, with walls used as part of the game.
The courts will be fully demountable and constructed from sustainable materials, including reclaimed wood.
Integrated planting will enhance the surrounding landscape and contribute to the facility’s low environmental impact.
The courts are expected to remain in place for up to seven years, with the flexibility to be relocated or adapted as the London Cancer Hub evolves.
Joss Taylor, head of activation at Populate, a company founded by Socius, said: “Public feedback has been at the heart of shaping this initiative.
“Throughout our consultation, a significant number of local residents and staff called for more on-site amenities.
“These new courts directly respond to that request.
“The facility will provide a wide range of health benefits, coaching opportunities and offer free sessions for local pupils and underrepresented groups.
“Taken together, it will help to reduce social isolation and strengthen community bonds in what was until recently a vacant space.
“We look forward to sharing more updates – and hopefully enjoying some strawberries and cream in true Wimbledon-style at the launch event.”
Sophie White, sector head for regeneration at Aviva Capital Partners, said: “We’re focused on investing to grow the economy, drive regeneration and support the creation of jobs and homes across the UK; objectives which align closely with our investment in Sutton.
“The new padel facility is an early example of how The London Cancer Hub will deliver lasting benefits to the local community.
“It will sit alongside a world-class research centre which will position the UK at the forefront of cancer innovation.”
