About the Long Term Plan
The All England Club’s vision is for The Championships to remain the premier tennis tournament in the world. The Club’s Long Term Plan, unveiled in 1993, set out to achieve this by substantially improving the quality and enjoyment of the Wimbledon experience for every participant. Since then, guided by a blend of tradition with innovation, Wimbledon has transformed its grounds, bringing in exciting new facilities such as the No.1 Court stadium, the very popular Aorangi Terrace and large tv screen, the Broadcast Centre and the Millennium Building. Currently, it is the turn of Centre Court and No.2 Court, both of which are scheduled for completion in time for the 2009 Championships.
Centre Court
Centre Court, Wimbledon’s ‘jewel in the crown’ and arguably one of the world’s most recognisable and evocative sporting arenas, has remained in action as the principal show court throughout the work and we are now well on the way towards completion of the major improvements which will allow spectators to enjoy the tennis in greater comfort, with better restaurant facilities and, if necessary, under the cover of a spectacular retractable roof. However, whereas last year the court was completely open to the elements, for the first time in its 85 year history, the look this year will be much more familiar as the new fixed roof has been installed.
Centre Court Retractable Roof
By the 2009 Championships, the final piece of the jigsaw, in the form of the retractable roof, will be in position. Modern, lightweight and translucent, the retractable roof will complement the original 1920s Centre Court building, ensuring fewer interruptions to play and completion of the main Championships events on time. When in use, the roof and its associated climate control system will provide optimum spectator comfort and a first-class and consistent playing environment in all weathers.
Centre Court Facilities
Centre Court’s capacity will rise to 15,000 in 2008 and the existing seating will be replaced in 2009 with wider and more comfortable seats; access will also be improved. This summer, both the public and Centre Court debenture holders will be able to savour the freshly-opened, extended and enhanced bar and restaurant areas in the Centre Court, with views over the Tea Lawn and courts 14–17. The Tea Lawn has also been completely re-designed to over improved refreshment facilities, including a café which will be open throughout the year for Museum visitors. A new bandstand, Champagne Bar and additional free-standing trees add to the Tea Lawn’s ambience and appeal.
New No.2 Court
Meanwhile, at the south end of the grounds, the new No.2 Court is under construction. This 4,000 seat show court is sunk some 3.5 metres below surface level so that the structure does not intrude on the views of the Club’s neighbours. With new catering and retail premises, the completed stadium, to be opened for the 2009 Championships, will be a fitting complement to its larger siblings.