As 2022 draws to a close, some updates on changes in Wimbledon town centre and local environs:
Last month saw a milestone in the redevelopment of the YMCA site with a topping out ceremony for the new YMCA building. Phase 2 of the project will commence once installation and occupation of the new building is complete. All works on the site are expected to be finished by early 2026.
The Mayor of London has resolved to allow Merton Council to determine the case itself for the redevelopment of St George’s House East, subject to any action the Secretary of State may take. Details of the Stage 2 decision and report can be found here.
The planning application for 13-19 Wimbledon Hill Road, the former Argos site, was recently reviewed by Merton Council’s Design Review Panel. The proposal includes demolition of the existing building and construction of a part six storey, part four storey building. We now await the Council’s decision on the application. Details can be found here reference 21/P1077. Further information on the work of Merton’s Design Review Panel can be found here
There are a few days left to share your thoughts on proposals to develop the former White Hart pub site on Kingston Road into student accommodation for University of the Arts London. Join the conversation here
The huge expansion of the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) has been the subject of both national and local media coverage in recent weeks. Merton and Wandsworth residents, and the wider community, anticipate the outcome of the planning process in the new year.
Merton Council’s Local Plan has been the subject of an independent examination by planning inspectors on behalf of the Secretary of State. The inspectors now require Merton Council to publish the plan one final time for six weeks of public consultation, incorporating any main changes that arose from the the examination. You can read further information here. Dates for the consultation have yet to be published.
Friends of Wimbledon Town is run by a small group of volunteers. We welcome new volunteers who can offer some time to be active in supporting our campaigns or help behind the scenes with research tasks. We currently have vacancies for town centre road monitors. It’s not an onerous task and full guidance will be provided. Please get in touch if you can help in any way via the volunteer link on our website.
With best wishes for the festive season.