What's happened
The All England Lawn and Tennis Club announced a multimillion-pound redevelopment of Wimbledon’s iconic Hill, set to enhance accessibility and capacity by 20% by 2027. The project includes a new pergola and environmentally sustainable pathways, aiming to improve the experience for fans and celebrate the tournament's 150th anniversary.
What's behind the headline?
Key Features of the Redevelopment
- Increased Capacity: The project will boost the Hill's capacity by 20%, allowing more fans to enjoy the atmosphere.
- Accessibility Improvements: New pathways will enhance wheelchair access, making the area more inclusive.
- Environmental Focus: The introduction of permeable pathways and a pergola aims to improve sustainability and provide shade.
Implications for Wimbledon
The redevelopment reflects a commitment to enhancing fan experience while addressing accessibility concerns. As the club prepares for its 150th anniversary, these changes will likely attract more visitors and improve overall satisfaction. The consultation with local residents indicates a desire for community involvement, which may mitigate potential opposition seen in previous expansion efforts.
What the papers say
According to Alexandra Topping in The Guardian, the All England Lawn and Tennis Club (AELTC) aims to create a more inclusive environment with the redevelopment of the Hill, stating, "I am particularly pleased that these plans will increase the accessibility of the Hill for our guests using wheelchairs or who have additional accessibility requirements." AP News highlights the Hill's significance, noting its popularity among fans without tickets, and emphasizes the planned enhancements to improve visibility and seating. BBC News quotes Tim Henman, a former Wimbledon semi-finalist, who remarked, "It's all about enhancing this whole area... accessibility is difficult for everyone," underscoring the importance of these changes for both fans and the club's reputation.
How we got here
Wimbledon’s Hill, known for its views of No 1 Court, has been a popular gathering spot for fans since 1997. The redevelopment comes as part of broader enhancements at the All England Club, including a controversial expansion plan approved last year.
Go deeper
- What specific changes will be made to the Hill?
- How will the redevelopment impact local residents?
- What is the timeline for the project?
Common question
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What Changes Are Coming to Wimbledon Hill in 2027?
Wimbledon Hill is set for a major revamp as part of a multimillion-pound redevelopment plan by the All England Lawn and Tennis Club. This project aims to enhance accessibility and capacity, making it a more enjoyable experience for fans. But what exactly will change, and how will it impact visitors? Here are some common questions about the upcoming renovations.
More on these topics
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Wimbledon most often refers to:
Wimbledon, London, a district of southwest London
Wimbledon Championships, the oldest tennis tournament in the world and one of the four Grand Slam championships
Wimbledon may also refer to:
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The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom or Britain, is a sovereign country located off the northwestern coast of the European mainland.
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Timothy Henry Henman OBE is a British retired professional tennis player. Henman played a serve-and-volley style of tennis. He was the first male player from the United Kingdom since Roger Taylor in the 1970s to reach the semi-finals of the Wimbledon Men'
