Wimbledon’s ambitious expansion project has been approved by the Greater London Authority, despite vocal objections from local residents. The All England Club (AELTC), which hosts the prestigious Wimbledon Grand Slam tournament, received the green light for the development that will add 39 new tennis courts and an 8,000-seat show court with a retractable roof.

The expansion will take place in Wimbledon Park, adjacent to the current grounds. One of the key aims of the project is to allow Wimbledon’s qualifying tournament, traditionally held at Roehampton, to take place on-site. The new courts, which include both competition and community-accessible facilities, will bring significant changes to the surrounding area.

However, the plans have sparked concerns from local residents, many of whom worry about the environmental impact. Protesters gathered outside City Hall before the decision was made and voiced their objections during a three-hour morning session. Many fear the loss of green space and potential damage to the park’s ecosystem.

Despite these concerns, London’s deputy mayor for planning, Jules Pipe, endorsed the project, stating, “the proposed development would facilitate very significant benefits,” and that those benefits outweigh any potential environmental harm. The AELTC has promised to work diligently to address local concerns and minimize the environmental impact.

Debbie Jevans, chair of the All England Club, stressed that the project would be executed with great care, stating that the club remains committed to its neighbors and the environment. She highlighted the plans to create a 23-acre public park where a private golf course once stood, providing recreational space for the community.

In addition, the project will include seven grass courts designated for public use, further integrating the local community into the club’s sporting infrastructure. Jevans emphasized that the expansion marks one of London’s most significant sporting developments since the 2012 Olympics and is essential for securing Wimbledon’s future as a world-leading sports event.

The decision to approve the expansion comes as Wimbledon aims to maintain its position at the pinnacle of global tennis, ensuring that the tournament remains competitive on the world stage. The benefits of the expansion are expected to extend beyond sports, offering local communities enhanced recreational opportunities while maintaining the club’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

As plans move forward, the AELTC will continue to engage with local residents and stakeholders to address concerns and work toward a balance between development and environmental stewardship.