Leader urges AELTC to reconsider development plans

Council Leader Simon Hogg said: 
 
“This proposal by AELTC (All England Lawn Tennis Club) to over-commercialise this neighbourhood for a tournament that lasts a few weeks each summer, at the expense of green space used by local residents every day of the year, is not what our community wants. 

“Wandsworth Council has opposed this development from the start. We urge the AELTC to suspend its challenges in the courts and through retrospective changes to national legislation and instead work with local communities to protect the green spaces that make Wimbledon special.  

Residents rightly expect us to stand up for our parks. People choose to live in neighbourhoods like this because of the access to beautiful, open green space. Our job is to protect that - even when the pressure comes from some of the most powerful commercial interests in the country.” 

“Wimbledon is a world-class tournament that brings pride to London. Protecting the environment and green spaces for the recreation of the communities who live here all year round matters far more. 
 
“Our Council will work with residents and AELTC to help develop plans that enhance the existing site and avoid any building on public open space." 
 
In 2023, Wandsworth Council’s Planning Committee voted unanimously to reject the proposed development.