Wimbledon expansion plans draw protests at start of tournament

Wimbledon expansion plans draw protests at start of tournament reports that opponents of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club’s redevelopment held a protest outside the grounds as the championships began on Monday. The AELTC is seeking permission to build 38 additional tennis courts and an 8,000-seat stadium on a former golf course opposite the existing site, under a plan approved for 2024 that would nearly triple the complex. Save Wimbledon Park members chanted during fan queues, arguing that the scale threatens public land in Wimbledon Park and could disrupt local residents for years. The group’s concerns include digging up 73 acres of metropolitan open land and potential ecological damage. The AELTC says the development is crucial for Wimbledon’s competitiveness and would benefit the community. Protesters also argue the infrastructure cannot handle the increased capacity, and Save Wimbledon Park says it will keep fighting the plans.