Wimbledon’s expansion plans have taken a step forward after a High Court ruling determined that the proposed development was not restricted by land-use rules.
The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club (AELTC) aims to almost triple the size of the Wimbledon site. The plans include the construction of 38 new tennis courts and an 8,000-seat stadium on a former golf course.
Court Ruling Clears the Way
The High Court ruling followed a challenge by the campaign group Save Wimbledon Park (SWP). SWP argued that a statutory trust existed under the Public Health Act, requiring the land to be maintained as a public space.
However, the club’s lawyers argued that when AELTC purchased the freehold in 1993, any such trust no longer applied. Mr Justice Thompsell stated that the land was “never appropriated or dedicated to the use of public recreation” and was instead “used as a private golf club”. He added that the club was “unencumbered by any statutory trust”.
The judge ruled that the land was never subject to a statutory trust and the 1986 lease and 1993 transfer of the freehold were made free of any such trust. He further stated that the land was never used or laid out for public recreation.
Reactions to the Decision
Deborah Jevans, chairwoman of AELTC, welcomed the ruling, stating it provided “important clarity”. She said the plans would deliver 27 acres of new public parkland on previously private land and allow Wimbledon to maintain its position as a successful sporting event.
Despite the ruling, Jeremy Hudson of SWP said the group would continue to fight the development, arguing there is a strong case for protecting the open space. He said Wimbledon had promised never to build on the land and that alternative plans exist to accommodate the scheme on their current site.
Hudson stated that these alternative plans would allow AELTC to stage a qualifying tournament on site, in keeping with other Grand Slams.
Project History
- The plans had been approved by the Greater London Authority (GLA) in 2024.
- AELTC purchased the freehold in 1993.
- The proposed expansion includes 38 new tennis courts.
- The new stadium is planned to have 8,000 seats.
SWP intends to apply to the Court of Appeal for permission to appeal the High Court’s decision.