Spurs pursue Whitewebbs women's academy despite legal defeat

Tottenham Hotspur's chief executive, Vinai Venkatesham, has confirmed the club's long-term ambition for a women's academy at Whitewebbs Park in High Barnet remains unchanged, despite ongoing legal challenges. The club is pursuing a fresh hearing at the Court of Appeal after its initial appeal against a High Court ruling was refused.

Court Ruling and Council's Position

Read Next in Barnet Press3 min read

Shared ownership apartments launch in Enfield from £91,250

New homes are available through shared ownership at Meridian Water, part of a wider regeneration project.

In June, a High Court judge quashed planning permission previously granted by Enfield Council for the development. The judge found that the council had materially misled the planning committee by concealing an ecologist's opinion that cast doubt on the biodiversity impact claims made by Tottenham Hotspur. The court ruled that the committee were given a false impression and were therefore "materially misled".

The club's application to the Court of Appeal follows the High Court's refusal to grant permission for a further appeal. The judge who refused the initial appeal stated that the finding of material prejudice indicated "real procedural unfairness had occurred". Enfield Council's new Conservative administration, which took control in May, has publicly urged Tottenham Hotspur to abandon the Whitewebbs plans.

Campaign Group's Involvement

Related Borough Coverage3 min read

Brewery Pond fish deaths prompt Environment Agency probe

Barnet Council requests investigation into low water levels and dead carp found in High Barnet pond.

The Guardians of Whitewebbs campaign group, which raised £35,000 to fund its legal challenge, expressed disappointment at the club's decision to pursue an appeal. The group stated that Tottenham Hotspur appeared to be ignoring the wishes of the local community and the new council administration. The original decision to grant planning permission was made under the previous Labour administration. Upon taking office, the current Conservative council leader, Cllr Alessandro Georgiou, dropped the local authority's legal defence of the judicial review.

Club's Immediate Focus

Minutes summarising Venkatesham's comments to the club's fan advisory board indicated that the "immediate focus" for the women's team is on improving existing facilities at the Tottenham Hotspur Training Centre. These improvements are described as a temporary requirement to keep pace with the team's growth, not an alternative to the Whitewebbs site. The club is investing in changing spaces, a gym, and a briefing room due to the current building being outgrown.