Bangor’s former Denis Ferranti factory is set for a new lease of life after councillors approved plans to convert part of the historic site into a major indoor padel and pickleball centre.
Gwynedd Council’s Planning Committee granted full permission on 8 December 2025 for the change of use of Unit F on the Ferranti estate, turning the former industrial space into a large indoor sports hub featuring eight padel courts, two pickleball courts, a warm-up zone, reception area and cycle parking facilities.
The approval marks the first phase of a wider regeneration programme for the long-vacant Ferranti site, which has been on the market since 2022 after decades of aerospace-related manufacturing. Developers say the sports centre will serve as the catalyst for new employment opportunities and a broader transformation of the estate.
Community leisure boost for Bangor
Planning officers concluded that converting the unused industrial unit into a community sports facility aligned with key policies encouraging the provision of accessible leisure spaces. They highlighted that the site lies within Bangor’s designated development boundary and is easily reachable on foot, by bike and by public transport.
The centre will open daily between 07:00 and 23:00, giving residents and visitors extended opportunities to access the fast-growing sport of padel.
Noise, traffic and site management conditions
Some local residents raised concerns during consultation regarding noise and increased vehicle movements, particularly near properties backing onto Bryn Llwyd. In response, the council imposed strict conditions, including compliance with detailed acoustic modelling, limits on late-evening noise, and a requirement for a noise survey within three months of opening, with further mitigation if needed.
The committee also noted that traffic associated with the sports centre is not expected to exceed that generated by the building’s previous industrial use, and 36 dedicated parking spaces will be allocated.
Asbestos Concerns
During the meeting, a brief concern was raised about potential asbestos within parts of the historic factory complex, a common issue in older industrial buildings. However, officers confirmed that asbestos matters fall under separate health and safety regulations rather than the planning process. As a result, the responsibility for asbestos surveys and safe removal rests with the developer before any refurbishment begins. Importantly, no asbestos-related issues were identified in the planning assessment, and the topic was not considered a barrier to approving the scheme.
A new chapter for the Ferranti site
Councillors concluded that the project represents a positive and sustainable reuse of a large, centrally located industrial building, offering community benefits and modern leisure provision while supporting local employment.
With planning permission now formally granted, work can begin on transforming the landmark Ferranti site, signalling the start of a much-anticipated regeneration journey for this once-important industrial hub.
