Russell-Cooke’s client, Save Wimbledon Park Ltd (SWP), has been granted permission by the Court of Appeal to challenge a High Court ruling concerning the proposed expansion of the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) on the former Wimbledon Park Golf Club site.
In March 2026, the High Court granted a declaration that, contrary to SWP’s case, the land intended for development is not subject to a statutory public trust for recreation under the Public Health Act 1875, removing a major hurdle to the proposed development. The plans include 38 new grass courts and an 8,000-seat stadium, which would significantly expand the Wimbledon Championships site.
This week however, the Court of Appeal has granted SWP permission to appeal the High Court’s decision. In granting permission, Lord Justice Newey said that the arguments advanced by SWP "have sufficient substance for the appeal to have a real prospect of success". The appeal is expected to be heard over three days, before three Court of Appeal judges.
The Russell-Cooke regulation and public law team representing SWP is led by Chair and partner John Gould and partner Michael Stacey, assisted by associate Lui Asquith.
This case raises important questions about the protection of open spaces and the legal obligations in relation to land held for the benefit of local communities. We welcome the Court of Appeal's decision to grant permission and the opportunity for these issues to receive further judicial consideration.
Russell-Cooke has represented SWP throughout the proceedings relating to both the planning and public trust issues arising from the proposed Wimbledon Championship site expansion.
The appeal hearing is due to take place by July 2027.
Get in touch
If you would like to speak with a member of the team you can contact our regulation and public law solicitors by telephone on +44 (0)20 3826 7524 or complete our enquiry form.
