Wimbledon to serve up 39 new tennis courts

Plans submitted by the All England Lawn Tennis Association (AELTC) to build 39 new tennis courts on a golf course site have been approved by the Greater London Authority (GLA).

The Wimbledon project would more than treble the size of the grand slam tennis grounds. The plans include an 8,000-capacity covered court, which will be the third show court at the venue.

Deborah Jevans, Chair of the All England Club, commented: “We are delighted that the GLA has resolved to approve our applications to transform the former Wimbledon Park Golf Course.

“Our proposals will deliver 27 acres of newly accessible parkland for the community and enable us to bring the Qualifying Competition for The Championships onsite, with all of the substantial economic and employment opportunities this presents.

“Every stage of this project will be delivered with a meticulous attention to detail and the utmost respect for both our neighbours and the environment.”

Jules Pipe CBE, Deputy Mayor for Planning, Regeneration and the Fire Service, said: “These plans for the site of a former private golf course will bring significant benefits to the local area, the wider capital and the UK economy, providing increased access to open green space and sport, new parkland and a host of new jobs.

“Hosting qualifying events on the same site as the Championships will put Wimbledon on a global footing with other Grand Slam tournaments and ensure it remains one of the world’s top sporting events. The scheme brings a huge range of economic, social and cultural benefits which will contribute to building a fairer, greener and more prosperous London for everyone.”