The judicial review of the decision by the GLA to approve the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) proposals is underway on the 8th and 9th July, with a decision expected in the autumn of this year.
AELTC recognises that the correct course of action is to put the matter before the court to establish that there is no trust over the land. That is why they initiated court proceedings and believe that resolving this matter is a crucial step that will provide reassurance for AELTC and the local community.
The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) proposes to develop the former Wimbledon Park golf course into a large-scale tennis complex. The plan includes more than doubling the number of grass courts, adding an 8,000-seat stadium, and constructing ten additional buildings, including a 30,000-square-foot maintenance depot. AELTC’s primary justification for this development is to host the Qualifying Tournament at the main Wimbledon site, rather than at Roehampton, which is 4 miles away. This would streamline operations and enhance the prestige of the tournament by consolidating events at a single, iconic location. AELTC argues that the development is necessary for the continued success and growth of the Wimbledon Championships.
The Save Wimbledon Park (SWP) campaign opposes the development, emphasising the importance of preserving the heritage land as a public recreational green space. The park is a Grade II* listed area, part of a Conservation Area, and a historic “Capability” Brown landscape, making it one of the most protected spaces in London. SWP argues that the land is subject to a Statutory Recreation Trust, which mandates its accessibility to the community. The Greater London Authority’s (GLA) lawyer concurs with SWP on this point, while AELTC disputes it. SWP contends that the development would be incompatible with community use, as the land is meant for public enjoyment, not private use for a few weeks each year. Additionally, SWP highlights the legal and financial implications of the judicial review, with expected costs of around £200,000, which are already partially funded by seed funders. The judicial review will examine whether the GLA’s decision to approve the development was lawful, with a focus on the land’s status under the Public Health Act 1875 and the Wimbledon Corporation Act 1914.
SWP believes the land should remain a public space, arguing that the development would undermine its historical and environmental value.
© London West (powered by ukpropertyforums.com).
Sign up to receive our weekly free journal, The Forum here.
