A climbing wall, a drive-in cinema – and now a centre showcasing one of the world's fastest growing sports – padel tennis.

That's the latest plan to transform the landmark empty shell of a historic former dockyard building into an exciting leisure complex.

A proposal has been submitted to convert the iconic skeletal structure of Machine Shop No 8 at Chatham Maritime so it can be dedicated to the game, which is a mix between tennis and squash.

And with it already proving a hit with football and tennis stars, David Beckham, Lionel Messi, Rafa Nadal and Andy Murray, to name a few, it's hoped it will be a winner with planning chiefs and councillors when it comes under consideration.

Also included are two restaurants, with decking overlooking the Dockside Outlet Centre with its marina, shops and wide range of eateries.

Centre manager Anthony Sutton said "a household name" and "established operator" had expressed an interest in moving in.

Eight courts, which are about half the size of normal tennis courts, would be in the central hall of the Grade II-listed building.

The game, which started in Acapulco, Mexico, in 1969, has taken off globally, notably in South America and Spain over the last decade..

And enthusiasts have set their sights on it being recognised in the line-up for future Olympic tournaments.

Normally played in doubles, it is considered a "gentler" activity than conventional tennis and is suitable for all age groups.

Using a smaller racket, the lighter-weight ball has to bounce first before hitting surrounding walls.

Mr Sutton said Covid and the rising cost of building materials had affected the outcome of the project.

He said: "Taking into account the current economic climate, I'm as sure as I can be that we can get this done and make it work.

"I'm really excited that we have the possibility of bringing this up-and-coming sport here to enhance the offer both at Dockside and Medway.

"Padel tennis appeals to people of all ages and levels of ability.

"It will be open to members and walk-ins. People will be able to grab a drink around the changing room areas and there will also be two separate restaurants."

Over the last seven years, WD Ltd, the owner of the retail park, has submitted several options for the towering cast-iron frame which was used as a dry dock cover in the dockyard's heyday.

Built at Woolwich Dockyard in 1845, it has been exposed to the elements and because of its deteriorating state of repair, has come under the remit of the national Heritage at Risk Register overseen by Historic England.

The plan is to carry out structural repairs by strengthening the metal joints and protect it with an extra durable paint, without changing its appearance and character.

Councillors rejected the drive-in cinema, with space for 64 cars, because of the possible impact of lighting and noise.

A rock climbing wall and trampoline centre was approved but never materialised. This was put down largely because of the rising cost of steel and structural problems.

This latest application includes parking for more than 50 cars, which has already been granted.