Padel courts, crazy golf and street food could pop up on Porthcawl seafront next summer

Padel courts, crazy golf, surf lessons and street food could open on Porthcawl seafront from as early as next summer, Bridgend County Borough Council said on 23 October. Local businesses are being invited to register their interest in running pop-ups and temporary leisure at Coney Beach. The council says the aim is to keep the seafront open and busy while longer-term plans for the waterfront progress.

What is being asked for

The council wants mobile food and drink businesses, sports and leisure providers and those interested in operating from mobile units or containers. It is also looking at children's play areas, with the mix able to change from season to season. Some businesses that do well could get the chance to move into permanent spaces as the wider development is delivered.

What is not settled

No operators have been selected, and the final mix will depend on the level of interest, how the proposals develop and planning requirements. The site is expected to be cleared by the end of March, which would allow the first new uses to open, subject to planning. Preparatory work now under way is being done under existing permissions and consents. The council says it is separate from the planning decision on the wider Porthcawl Waterfront masterplan, which is still under consideration.

How to register

Businesses can contact Sandybay@bridgend.gov.uk. A formal expression of interest exercise is being prepared, with more information to follow. The council says a leisure strategy submitted with the planning application will soon be available at porthcawlwaterfront.co.uk. Councillor Colin Davies, cabinet member for housing and regeneration, said the council was keen to hear from local businesses that could help bring forward a mix of leisure, food and drink and family activities, so the seafront keeps serving people throughout the works.