Ninety-nine-year-old actor Thelma Ruby has vowed to “chain myself to the grounds” of the All England Club in protest of plans to build 39 new tennis courts at Wimbledon. Speaking at a public meeting organized by Save Wimbledon Park, Ruby voiced her concerns about the environmental impact of the proposed development, which would involve cutting down trees and building on protected metropolitan open land. The All England Club argues that the new courts are necessary to maintain Wimbledon’s status as a premier tennis tournament.
Despite initial approval from Merton council, the proposal faced opposition from residents and Wandsworth council, prompting a review by the Greater London Authority. While GLA planning officers have recommended conditional approval, opponents like Liberal Democrat MP Paul Kohler and Christopher Coombe of Save Wimbledon Park remain hopeful, citing precedents of successful challenges to similar developments.
The final decision will rest with Jules Pipe, the deputy mayor of London, after Mayor Sadiq Khan recused himself due to his prior support for the plans. Residents like Thelma Ruby are determined to continue their fight against the development, citing the importance of preserving green spaces and the potential environmental consequences of the new tennis courts. Whether the All England Club’s plans ultimately receive approval remains to be seen, but opponents are prepared to pursue legal action if necessary to protect Wimbledon Park.
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