Feature

Roland Garros development on hold again

Roland Garros' redevelopment has again been delayed after a ruling that last week gave it the green light was overthrown in another court.

It is five years since the French Tennis Federation (FTF) decided the French Open should remain at the historic site rather than move to a new venue. A roof on the main Philippe-Chatrier Court is included in the redevelopments planned.

However, progress has been dogged by environmental groups who claim the construction of a new 5,000-seat court in the complex's Serres d'Auteuil botanical garden would harm the vegetation.

Just days after France's highest administrative jurisdiction gave its go-ahead to the project, the heirs of architect Jean-Camille Formige – who designed the botanical gardens – persuaded another court to halt the project.

The FTF said it was "scandalised" by a decision "taken in dubious conditions," and immediately asked the court to overturn the judgement.

The further delay is also problematic for Paris' bid for the 2024 Olympic Games, with bid officials planning to use Roland Garros for tennis, basketball and rugby.

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