Wimbledon plans major expansion with 39 new courts and stadium despite local opposition

Wimbledon plans to expand by adding 39 new grass courts, including an 8,000-seat stadium, on the former Wimbledon Park golf course. This expansion would nearly triple the size of the tournament grounds. The Greater London Authority granted planning permission in September 2024. Opposition has emerged from the campaign group Save Wimbledon Park, which argues that the expansion violates a covenant requiring the land to remain open for public recreation. Both the All England Lawn Tennis Club and the campaign group have initiated legal proceedings, potentially leading to a judicial review. The AELTC aims to enhance Wimbledon’s status among Grand Slam tournaments by moving qualifying matches on-site, which could increase attendance. However, local residents express concerns about ecological impacts and the loss of public space, despite some support for the development.