Wimbledon faces a crucial review of its expansion plans. As the SW19 tournament approaches, starting on 30 June, All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club chair Deborah Jevans announced that a judicial review concerning the Greater London Authority’s decision to grant planning permission for expansion at the local golf course will occur in early July. The planned expansion includes a new show court and enough courts to host the pre-Wimbledon qualifying event on-site, aligning with other grand slams. The AELTC claims this will enhance fan access and convert the golf course land into publicly accessible parkland, a benefit they argue has been previously denied to residents. However, the decision has sparked controversy among locals, and the judicial review aims to address these concerns.
Jevans emphasised the importance of transforming the former Wimbledon Golf Course to establish a permanent qualifying competition site near the main grounds, rather than relying on leased land. She noted the trend of fellow grand slams hosting integrated three-week events. The judicial review of the Greater London Authority’s decision is scheduled for 8 and 9 July, with a ruling expected weeks later.
In addition to the review, Wimbledon is dealing with another legal issue regarding the land possibly being part of a statutory trust. The AELTC was advised that the trust does not apply but has pursued legal action to remove any ambiguity. Jevans mentioned that their request for an expedited hearing was granted, with the hearing set for January 2026. She highlighted the potential of opening 27 acres of previously inaccessible golf course land to the public.
