Wimbledon’s plans to build 39 new courts and an 8000-seater stadium are under threat from a somewhat peculiar source.
Plans have been approved for Wimbledon to almost triple in size, something that the All England Lawn Tennis Club claims will ‘create 27 acres of beautiful new parkland, free for the public to access and enjoy’.
Whilst plans have been approved, some local residents have warned of the environmental impacts the development could have and fear it will take over a decade to complete.
Demonstrations against the decision were held in October and 21,000 people have signed a petition to stop the development from going ahead.
One resident in particular is prepared to make her voice heard.
99-year-old set to chain herself to tree in Wimbledon protest
99-year-old retired actress Thelma Ruby has announced he intentions to chain herself to a tree in protest against the developments.
Ruby appeared in Coronation Street and starred alongside Judy Dench on stage during her career, and has lived on Wimbledon Hill Road for over 30 years.
The retired actress has taken particular issue with the proposed cutting down of 300 trees, a number which she doesn’t quite believe.
“They admit to cutting down 300 trees. Experts tell us it’s more like 800 trees,” Ruby exclaims.
The actress has planned out her protest to the very last detail.
“I’ve actually chosen the tree,” she said.
“I’m going to chain myself to a tree, so that maybe I can save one of those 800 trees.”
More Wimbledon plans set for 2025
Whilst Ruby may have problems with the long-term plans for Wimbledon, there are some changes for next year that have others up in arms.
Wimbledon announced recently that they will be replacing line judges with AI for 2025, something that a number of players have taken issue with.
The decision to remove line judges has angered fans and players alike, as a 147-year tradition has come to an end.
Next year’s Wimbledon Championships will begin on 30th June 2025 with Carlos Alcaraz and Barbora Krejcikova set to defend their titles.
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