Local Campaigners Challenge Wimbledon's Ambitious Expansion in Court
Source: news.source.channelnewsasia
Wimbledon's expansion plans faced legal opposition from the campaign group Save Wimbledon Park at the High Court in London. The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club (AELTC) aims to expand its site significantly, including the addition of 39 new courts and an 8,000-seat show court. The campaigners argue that the Greater London Authority (GLA) did not adequately consider restrictions on the land, which is part of a historically protected park and conservation area. The AELTC and GLA maintain that the expansion was lawfully approved and would benefit the local community, while the case could set a precedent for other protected lands in London.
Key Points
Wimbledon's expansion plan includes 39 new courts and an 8,000-seat show court, aiming to increase daily capacity and host qualifying rounds on site.
Save Wimbledon Park is challenging the expansion in court, arguing that the GLA did not consider land use restrictions properly.
The land in question is part of a historically protected park and conservation area, raising concerns about the precedent this case could set for other protected lands.
The AELTC and GLA assert that the expansion was lawfully approved and would bring significant benefits to the local community.
The expansion plan has received support from some players like Novak Djokovic and some local residents.
The legal challenge coincides with the singles quarter-finals and is one of two cases at the High Court concerning Wimbledon's expansion.