AELTC wanted to build on sports ground
Wimbledon's All England Tennis Club have been turned down in their bid to build homes on playing fields in Raynes Park.
The AELTC wanted to build 53 properties, a mixture of houses and flats, on the sports ground they own between Grand Drive, Southway, Elm Walk and Cannon Hill Lane.
Although Merton council's planning officer's report recommended approval for the scheme, it was turned down at a recent planning meeting.
Around 30 residents attended the meeting to make their views known. David Freeman spoke on behalf of the local Residents' Association and Ward Councillors Gilli Lewis-Lavender and Iain Dysart were among those who spoke against the plans.
Councillor Logie Lohendran, Cannon Hill ward councillor, said: "Together with concerned residents, local Conservative councillors have long been campaigning to protect these treasured playing fields. The developer's plans would have meant the loss of a much used sports ground.
"I am therefore delighted that the Planning Committee agreed with us, including about the severe lack of infrastructure in place to support such a large scale development and the increased risk of flooding and traffic congestion it would generate. Their decision just goes to show that the voices of local residents really can make a difference."
March 20, 2012