Wimbledon reveals plans for Henman Hill makeover
The iconic grass slope is annually packed with fans, particularly for the big matches when those without tickets to the stadium courts gather to watch the action on a big screen.
To coincide with the All England Championships' 150th celebrations in 2027, Wimbledon has proposed to expand the hill's capacity by around 20 per cent, including new facilities for wheelchairs, as well as more seating and more eco-diversity.
On Thursday, the All England Club announced the existing paths would be removed after next year's championships and replaced with permeable pathways as well as more provisions for shade and a new pergola, in addition to more flowers.
Deborah Jevans CBE, chair of the All England Club, commented: 'The redevelopment of our world-famous Hill, in time for The Championships 2027, will allow even more tennis fans to enjoy its unique atmosphere and vantage point. 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.
'It is an exciting opportunity as we look towards 2027 and the 150th anniversary of the first Championships.'
Ruth Hopkins, general manager and head of access at disabled fans group Level Playing Field, welcomed the proposed changes in a statement: 'I am delighted that Level Playing Field has played an important role in working with the All England Club to enhance their world-famous Hill to be an inclusive and accessible space for everyone attending Wimbledon. These plans will deliver significant improvements for all guests but particularly for those with accessibility requirements.'
The revamp is yet to be confirmed and a consultation event in April will invite local residents to offer their feedback before planning permission is sought from the local borough, Merton.
Wimbledon is currently facing a High Court confrontation with local residents after being granted planning permission for an expansion of the site by the Deputy Mayor of London.
A judicial review is scheduled for July 8 and 9 over the controversial plans to build an 8,000-seater stadium and new tennis courts on the site of the old Wimbledon Park golf course. Those plans have been contested by the Save Wimbledon Park campaign and local MPs since it was first proposed in 2021.
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