Importance Score: 35 / 100 🔵
Wimbledon’s Famous Viewing Area, Known as Henman Hill, to Undergo Multimillion-Pound Renovation
Wimbledon’s iconic viewing area, popularly known across generations as Henman Hill, Murray Mound, or Raducanu Rise, is set for a significant upgrade. The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) has announced a multimillion-pound redevelopment project aimed at enhancing the experience for tennis fans at the Wimbledon Championships. This celebrated grassy knoll, a prime location for grounds pass holders to watch matches from No. 1 Court since 1997, will see increased capacity and improved accessibility as part of the plans.
Enhancements to Wimbledon Hill
Increased Capacity and Improved Accessibility for Spectators
The planned renovation, slated for completion ahead of the 2027 championships, will expand the Hill’s capacity by 20%. A key focus of the project is to enhance accessibility for wheelchair users and guests with other mobility requirements. The design incorporates new accessible pathways across the slope to facilitate easier navigation for all attendees.
New Pergola and Sustainable Features
Central to the redevelopment is the construction of a new pergola, a structure favoured by Wimbledon, which will replace the existing one at the Hill’s summit. This feature will provide increased shade and shelter from inclement weather via additional hanging plants. Furthermore, the AELTC aims to boost the area’s environmental sustainability by substituting tarmac paths with permeable resin. The pergola will be designed to encircle the area’s historic 150-year-old oak tree.
Official Statements on the Redevelopment
Deborah Jevans, Chair of the AELTC, commented on the project: “The redevelopment of our world-famous Henman Hill, in time for the championships 2027, will enable even more tennis fans to immerse themselves in its unique atmosphere and prime viewing location.”
Jevans further highlighted the accessibility improvements: “I am particularly pleased that these plans will improve the accessibility of the Hill for our guests using wheelchairs or who have additional accessibility requirements. It presents an exciting opportunity as we anticipate 2027 and the 150th anniversary of the first championships.”
Community Consultation and Project Timeline
Prior to submitting a planning application to Merton council, a consultation is scheduled for local residents on April 10th. This session will provide an opportunity for the community to learn more about the plans and offer feedback.
Work on the revamped Hill is scheduled to commence after the 2026 championships, with the unveiling anticipated for the 150th tournament anniversary in 2027. This timeline follows the AELTC’s broader venue expansion project, which aims to add 39 courts and an 8,000-seat show court, alongside the restoration of a Capability Brown-designed lake.
Accessibility Advocacy Group Praises Inclusivity Enhancements
Ruth Hopkins, General Manager and Head of Access at Level Playing Field, a charity focused on sports accessibility, expressed her support: “I am delighted that Level Playing Field has played a significant role in collaborating with the AELTC to enhance their world-renowned hill to become an inclusive and accessible space for everyone attending Wimbledon.”
Hopkins added, “These plans will bring about considerable improvements for all visitors, especially those with accessibility needs.”