NEWs

03 September 2024

Update on planning application

We have received an update from Kingston Council on our planning application for Franklin Pickleball Club. The process is ongoing with no objections raised so far. The application has also had very positive feedback, with 34 submissions in support, one neutral, and none against.

The council has asked for additional time to make a final decision, and we’ve been advised to expect this on 11 October 2024.

29 August 2024

Designing the perfect pickleball club

Our 10 state-of-the-art pickleball courts (see layout below) will be international-championship standard, with a cushioned surface to ensure maximum consistency of bounce, comfort and safety. Beautifully designed to create a visually appealing and enjoyable playing experience, the image below shows one of the surface colour schemes we are exploring.

The following selection of images shows the kind of look and feel our interior designers will to create at Franklin Pickleball Club.

08 June 2024

Franklin Sports and MCMX join forces to announce England's largest dedicated pickleball club

Franklin Sports, an iconic brand and global leader in sports equipment, has announced a groundbreaking collaboration with MCMX to establish the UK’s largest premier pickleball club in Kingston Upon Thames,Greater London. Scheduled to open in early 2025, the planned state-of-the-art facility is set to become the ultimate destination for pickleball enthusiasts of all levels, featuring first-class amenities including:

  • 10 high-specification dedicated pickleball courts, 4 of which are show courts equipped with seating designed to accommodate international tournaments and events
  • changing rooms with showers & warm-up areas
  • a café and bar with spacious viewing balcony and social areas
  • comprehensive professional retail shop.

Located in Fairfield Trade Park, the club will be easily accessible by foot, bike, train, bus, or car, making it a convenient location for the growing pickleball community.

Jared Franklin of Franklin Sports expressed his excitement about the partnership:

We’re thrilled to join forces with MCMX in plans to bring the UK’s largest dedicated pickleball club to life. This venture represents a perfect synergy between our commitment to innovation and MCMX's dedication to excellence in venue operations and facilities. We look forward to providing a world-class experience for pickleball enthusiasts in Greater London and beyond.”

Neil Rodford and Louise Stephens, Founders of MCMX, added:

Partnering with Franklin Sports to plan this state-of-the-art pickleball club is a dream come true for all of us at MCMX. We are excited to combine our expertise in pickleball and facility management with Franklin's renowned reputation in the industry to create a premier destination for pickleball enthusiasts and those yet to discover the game”

Karen Mitchell, Chair of Pickleball England, also shared her enthusiasm:

The planned establishment of the UK's largest dedicated pickleball club in Greater London is a significant development for the sport in our country. This collaboration between Franklin Sports and MCMX will undoubtedly elevate the profile of pickleball and provide a world-class facility for players to hone their skills and enjoy the game to the fullest.”

In support of the planned facility, Pickleball England is hosting a pop-up ‘Pickleball Slam’ event at Fairfield Trade Park on Wednesday 12th June, with former British no.1 tennis players Johanna Konta & Greg Rusedski joining top pickleball players in a mixed doubles exhibition match.

As anticipation builds for the grand opening in early 2025, the partnership between Franklin Sports and MCMX promises to revolutionise the pickleball landscape in the south of England. This project remains subject to planning permission* from Kingston Upon Thames Council, with a decision expected in the summer of 2024. The MCMX team is committed to working with the local community and authorities to provide a facility that all stakeholders can be proud of.

* we are delighted to announce that our plans have now been Validated by the council. You can view and comment on the proposal here: https://publicaccess.kingston.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?keyVal=SDL5XZNHGMN00&activeTab=summary

Stay in the know

To keep up to date with the latest at Franklin Pickleball Club – and find about about membership options when they’re released – join our mailing list.

Stay in the know

To keep up to date with the latest at Franklin Pickleball Club – and find about membership options when they’re released – join our mailing list.