London Cancer Hub serves up social impact with Sutton’s first padel courts

Populate & Socius, in partnership with Aviva, is proud to announce the opening of Sutton’s first-ever padel courts at the London Cancer Hub. This new four-court facility, launching in October, transforms a previously unused area of the Hub into a vibrant destination for sport, wellbeing, and community connection.

The courts, operated by Social Sports Society, are designed to deliver lasting benefits for Sutton and its residents. Local job creation, free access for charities, discounted sessions for residents and staff, and dedicated youth programmes are all part of the initiative’s commitment to social impact.

The project was shaped by extensive community engagement, with feedback from over 4,500 residents helping to inform the plans. The result is a facility that directly responds to local demand for accessible health and leisure amenities.

Discounted rates are available for London Cancer Hub staff, patients, and local residents, while 40 hours of free court time each week are reserved for students and charitable organisations, including 10 hours specifically for Harris Academy Sutton students.

Joe Cutress, Director of Sport at Harris Academy Sutton, commented:
“We’re just as excited as the students to get out on the new courts and play padel, which will be a fantastic addition to our sports provision. Having this built on our doorstep is a fantastic opportunity for our students, who can’t wait to take advantage of our dedicated hours.”

The facility is open for bookings from 1st October 2025. Courts and coaching can be booked via the Playtomic app by searching for 'S3 Padel Sutton'.

Sophie White, Sector Head for Regeneration at Aviva Capital Partners, added:
"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.”

The temporary courts, built from sustainable materials, will be in place for up to seven years as part of the wider £1 billion vision to create a world-leading district for cancer research and innovation in Sutton.

For more information or to book a court, visit the Playtomic app or contact keith@socialsportssociety.com.