Wimbledon Expansion Plans Face Setback as Wandsworth Council Recommends Refusal

Local Opposition Grows with Over 13,000 Signatures Against the Proposal; Decision Pending on November 21

Wandsworth Council's planning officers have recommended refusal of the All England Club's £200 million expansion plans for Wimbledon, which includes 38 grass courts and an 8,000-seater Parkland Court.
The report published by Wandsworth Council stated the proposed development would disrupt the historic landscape and detract from the open character of the parkland and the conservation area.
The expansion plans have been met with local opposition, with over 13,000 residents signing a petition against it.
Merton Council, which holds 90% of the proposed development, had previously approved the plans, stating the Wimbledon Championships should have the opportunity to improve and maintain its status as a premier tournament.
A meeting is scheduled for November 21 to decide on the expansion plans, and the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has recused himself from the decision.