Plans to significantly expand the Wimbledon tennis site can proceed after a High Court judge dismissed a legal challenge from the campaign group “Save Wimbledon Park” (SWP).
This ruling paves the way for the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) to build 38 new tennis courts and an 8,000-seat stadium on the former Wimbledon Park Golf Club.
The proposed development, approved by the Greater London Authority (GLA), had faced opposition from SWP, which argued the land was protected. However, Mr. Justice Saini ruled that the GLA’s decision was a “planning judgment rationally exercised.”
Deborah Jevans, chairwoman of the All England Club, expressed her delight, highlighting the creation of “a permanent home for the Wimbledon qualifying competition as well as delivering 27 acres of beautiful new parkland for local people.”
Despite the setback, SWP indicated it may appeal the decision, asserting that the GLA made a “significant legal error” regarding the park’s special status.
While a separate legal case concerning a statutory trust on the land is ongoing, the AELTC can now move forward with its ambitious expansion, a move celebrated by many as solidifying Wimbledon’s global reputation.
