Plans to expand the size of Wimbledon have moved a step closer after a court ruled that the development was not restricted by land-use rules.

The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club (AELTC) plans to triple the size of the Wimbledon tennis site, adding 38 courts and an 8,000-seater stadium on a former golf course.

A campaign group, Save Wimbledon Park, argued the land should be kept as public space but in a ruling issued on Thursday by the High Court, Mr Justice Thompsell said the land was "never appropriated or dedicated to the use of public recreation" and instead "was used as a private golf club", adding that the club was "unencumbered by any statutory trust".

"It never became the subject of a statutory trust and therefore the 1986 lease and the 1993 transfer of the freehold were each made free of such trust," the ruling said.

"Even if the above proposition is wrong, it is clear that the land was never used or laid out for public recreation."

Save Wimbledon Park intend to apply to the Court of Appeal for permission to appeal the decision.

Jeremy Hudson, a director of SWP, said that there was a "strong case for protecting this precious open space".

He said: "Wimbledon can do better because there are existing, alternative plans which show that their scheme can be accommodated on their current site.

"This not only saves the environment but leaves the park free for the recreation and enjoyment of the public. These better plans would still allow (the club) to stage a qualifying tournament on site in keeping with the other grand slams. Therefore, we fight on."

Deborah Jevans, chair of the All England Club, said the ruling provided "important clarity".

She said: "The ruling represents a significant milestone for our plans, which will, as well as delivering 27 acres of beautiful new public parkland on previously private land, allow us to maintain Wimbledon's position as one of the world's most successful sporting events.

"Hosting our qualifying competition in SW19 will bring us into line with the other grand slams, and by increasing the practice facilities for the world's best players, we will bring fans even closer to the sport's best athletes.

"We know from our discussions with more than 10,000 local residents that the vast majority of people want us to get on and deliver the benefits of our plans as soon as possible."