Wimbledon £200 Million Expansion Clears Major Legal Hurdle

Wimbledon’s plans to expand the grounds of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club (AELTC) have overcome one of their big legal challenge, as London’s High Court rejected an appeal by campaign group Save Wimbledon Park.

This ruling allows the EURO 200 million (AUD256 million) redevelopment project to proceed, marking a critical step in the Grand Slam’s strategy for future growth and competitive positioning.

The proposed expansion, set on a former golf course owned by the AELTC, aims to nearly treble the size of the main site. Key features include the addition of 39 new courts, an 8,000-seat show court, and an increased daily capacity of 50,000 people.

The plans also allow for the qualifying rounds of The Championships to be held on-site for the first time, a move designed to increase operations and enhance the overall tournament experience.

The legal challenge, brought by Save Wimbledon Park, contended that the Greater London Authority (GLA) failed to properly account for historical restrictions on land redevelopment, agreed upon when the AELTC’s parent company acquired the golf course freehold in 1993.

However, Judge Pushpinder Saini dismissed this challenge to the lawfulness of the planning permission, which the GLA had approved last year.

Despite this win, the AELTC’s plans still face another legal battle early next year concerning the land’s statutory trust status. AELTC chair Debbie Jevans expressed satisfaction with the High Court ruling, stating the club would now focus on these separate proceedings.

Conversely, Save Wimbledon Park director Christopher Coombe indicated an intent to appeal Monday’s decision, citing concerns about setting a worrying precedent for the unwanted development of protected green belt and public open spaces.

Don’t miss out on the latest in sports business – Subscribe today to the free Ministry of Sport newsletter and stay ahead of the game. For even more exclusive insights, event tickets, professional development and networking events, become a MoS Member today!.