A major regeneration boost could be on the way for Bangor after the Social Sports Society submitted plans to transform part of the former Denis Ferranti site into a vibrant indoor sports and wellbeing hub.

If approved, the proposals would see a vacant warehouse converted into a modern facility featuring eight padel courts, two pickleball courts, social spaces, and community amenities – creating new opportunities for people of all ages to play, connect, and thrive.

From industry to community

The Ferranti estate, which powered Bangor’s economy from 1951 until 2022, was once a hub of aerospace engineering. Now, in what could be the first step of its wider regeneration, the site has the potential to take on a new role – one that champions community health, inclusivity, and active living.

The site was sold in December 2024 to Bearmont Group, which, until recently, owned the Menai Centre shopping centre in Bangor.

Who are Social Sports Society?

 

The Social Sports Society is a fast-growing social enterprise with a proven track record of reimagining underused urban spaces and turning them into thriving centres of activity.

In Wembley, their flagship site has become a beacon for community sport, welcoming thousands of players every month.

At Brent Cross, they transformed a previously empty retail unit into a buzzing sports hub, attracting families, schools, and local businesses.

In Sutton, their venue is already oversubscribed, showing the huge appetite for affordable and accessible sport.

Building on this success, the Society has plans to expand further with new centres in Manchester, Derby and Romford in 2026 – underlining their role as one of the most ambitious community-sport innovators in the UK.

Accessible, inclusive, and community-first

Unlike many private gyms or clubs, the Social Sports Society’s model ensures open access for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or background. Each venue offers:

Free or discounted play every week for community members who may otherwise be excluded.

Coaching and skills pathways for young people — with the proposed Bangor site pledging to fund padel coaching courses for at-risk youth, leading to potential employment.

School partnerships, giving pupils the chance to experience new and exciting sports for free.

Fair employment, with all staff paid at least the real living wage, and opportunities for training and progression.

The Social Sports Society’s mission is to reclaim underused spaces and return them to the heart of communities. In London, their projects have already shown how affordable sport can unite people, build confidence, and create healthier, happier neighbourhoods. If the Bangor plans are approved, the organisation aims to bring that same energy and impact to North Wales.

What are Padel and Pickleball?

Padel is a fast-growing sport, a mix of tennis and squash, played in doubles on a smaller court enclosed with glass walls. It’s easy to learn, sociable, and fun for all ages.

Pickleball combines tennis, badminton, and table tennis, played with paddles and a lightweight ball. It’s low impact, inclusive, and already booming in popularity across the UK.

A new chapter for Bangor

Although this proposal covers just one part of the wider Ferranti site, it represents a landmark first step in its potential transformation. Alongside creating jobs and attracting investment, the new venue could provide Bangor with something it has long needed – a high-quality, accessible sports and community hub.

From aerospace engineering to community sport, the Ferranti site could be entering a bold new era – one that puts Bangor firmly on the map for padel and pickleball in North Wales.

Photos: (1) The Denis Ferranti Site in bangor (2) Social Sports Society community padel venue at Wembley, London.