Queen's Club plan ruled out of court

THE Queen's Club in West London has been saved from possible property development by a decision by Environment Secretary Michael Meacher that it is a private open space. The Lawn Tennis Association, owner of the club founded in 1886, could have received up to £55m for the 13-acre site near Barons Court Tube station.

But a planning inspector appointed by Meacher has said special planning restrictions apply. This will come as a relief for the 3,800 members, who hope to buy the club from the LTA, which is looking for headquarters elsewhere.

Queen's Club members include the Wessexes and Kents as well as former Arsenal player-turned-TV presenter Ian Wright and Olympic gold medallist Daley Thompson.

The LTA has pledged that they will have an option to buy the ground. The price is likely to be about £15m following the Department of the Environment decision.