‘They promised not to build’ – Residents object to Wimbledon expansion

The AELTC has plans to expand the ground of Wimbledon massively in the next decade, but some locals are not happy about it.

The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) wishes to add 67 hectares to its complex in order to house more facilities and bring qualification for the Slam in house from its current venue in Roehampton.

But now, more than 1,000 public objections have been made against those visions along with 30 letters of support.

At a Merton council meeting, Liberal Democrat councillor Paul Kohler called on the council to obstruct the plans.

“When the council sold the freehold of the Wimbledon Golf Club site to the All England Club in 1993 they gave public assurances that they would never build on the land,” Kohler claimed.

“[That was] backed up with a legally enforceable covenant in the sale agreement,” he added.

“Now the All England Club is trying to go back on its word and break its promises to the council and to Wimbledon residents.

“By pressing ahead with these plans in spite of the significant opposition of local residents, and in flagrant disregard of its historic promises not to build on the land, the All England Club is showing complete contempt for the people of Wimbledon.”

The AELTC is looking to construct 39 new grass courts and a new 8,000 seat show court.

? Read >> Breaking tennis news

? Follow >> 24/7 LIVE scores

? Free >> Receive our legendary newsletter

? Join >> Tennishead CLUB, the world’s only virtual tennis club

? Social >> Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & YouTube

? Order >> World’s best tennis magazine

? Shop >> Lowest price tennis gear from our trusted retail partner