@Allies&Morrison/AELTCA judicial contest concerning strategies to nearly enlarge the Wimbledon tennis location three-fold is scheduled to be presented to the Court of Appeal by area activists.
The Greater London Authority (GLA) gave their endorsement in September of 2024 for the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) to erect 38 courts for tennis and a stadium seating 8,000 individuals on the grounds previously occupied by Wimbledon Park Golf Club situated in west London.
Save Wimbledon Park (SWP) voiced their happiness at having the chance to appeal, portraying their endeavor as “an unequal contest.”
AELTC commented that the outlined strategies “will establish a lasting site for the Wimbledon Qualifying Competition and generate 27 acres of appealing new recreational land”.
Simon WrightIn July, SWP’s official challenge in High Court opposing GLA regarding its verdict to permit the expansion was turned down.
During the session, legal representatives on behalf of SWP informed the court that the determination to sanction the proposals was “not reasonable” and should be nullified.
They asserted that Wimbledon Park, recognized as a Grade II*-listed heritage area partly envisioned by Lancelot “Capability” Brown, was subject to stipulations and agreements overseeing its allowed uses.
SWP stated post-ruling their view that the judge “did not sufficiently recognize the formal agreement and limitations agreed.”
Distinct High Court procedures are presently underway pertaining to the existence of a statutory agreement, with hearings anticipated in January 2026.
SWP declared that being granted an appeal demonstrated that “The Community and SWP can’t be disregarded”.
Christopher Coombe from SWP expressed: “SWP has never been against tennis. We think it is about time the AELTC acknowledged the host of judicial and fundamental issues associated with their strategies and engage in open dialogues with SWP and the local inhabitants.”
PA MediaAELTC mentioned they were “certain the Court of Appeal will in the end determine that the High Court reached the accurate conclusion when maintaining GLA’s authorization of planning permission”.
The organization stated the initiatives would “offer 27 acres of attractive new parkland for the enjoyment of the local population, granting the general population access to a green space that has been in use as a private golf club for over a century”.
A GLA representative stated: “The mayor is of the opinion that this project will bring about considerable advantages covering the environment, economy, society and culture to the immediate locality, the larger capital area and the economy of the UK.
“It is going to generate new employment opportunities, public green areas and reinforce Wimbledon’s standing as the top-tier tennis event across the globe.”
It stated with legal processes ongoing, they could not elaborate further.
The appeal hearing, intended to span over a couple of days, has yet to have a confirmed date.
