Mayor green lights L&Q's plans to build on adored dog track

Published by Max Salsbury for 24dash.com in Housing and also in Central Government, Communities, Development, Local Government

The London Mayor, Boris Johnson, yesterday gave the go-ahead for the development of new homes on a much-loved Walthamstow dog racing track.

Housing association L&Q's (London and Quadrant) contentious plans have been bitterly opposed by residents and local MPs Stella Creasy and Iain Duncan Smith.

Mayor Johnson commiserated with those who are fond of the Walthamstow Stadium, claiming to "share the sadness of many about the demise of dog racing," but he added that the redevelopment would create new homes and jobs for the area.

Local opposition group, Save Our Stow, is furious with the decision, which will see up to 300 homes built on the site. A statement on the group's website said: "Like everyone we were bitterly disappointed that Mayor Boris Johnson’s support and pre-election promises for the famous Walthamstow Dog Stadium were NOT kept!"

Walthamstow's Labour MP, Stella Creasy, said: "“Like many residents in Walthamstow, I’m gutted to see Boris Johnson’s support for the popular Walthamstow Dog Stadium before the mayoral elections disappear after them. Today’s news is a bitter blow to those of us who want the best for Walthamstow."

Earlier in the year, Iain Duncan Smith, MP for Chingford & Woodford Green, questioned L&Q's status as social housing providers in the furore over its intentions for the dog track, when it was revealed that it planned to develop only 24 homes for affordable rent and none for social rent.

L&Q bought the site four years ago after it closed due to dwindling profits.

Mayor Johnson was upbeat over his decision to grant permission. He said: "I believe this proposal will provide a major boost for Walthamstow, creating new jobs and new homes, many of which will be affordable and attract desperately needed new investment into the area.

"Whilst no viable plan has been put forward to bring racing back I am pleased the new development will preserve many of the historic elements of the stadium including a sprint circuit along the route of the old track. In addition a huge £2 million contribution to the surrounding community has been secured from the developer which will deliver vastly improved local sports and leisure facilities for generations of east Londoners to enjoy."

However, Stella Creasy told campaigners that she is not giving up. She said: "I made a pledge to residents at the election to fight for our stadium because of the future potential it offers our community and I owe it to them to continue to explore who can hear our concerns now. That’s why I’m now making a public plea to the Government to listen to Walthamstow and asking residents to make their feelings known to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government."

L&Q is pleased with the Mayor's decision and is looking forward to beginning work soon. Andy Rowland, a director at L&Q, said: “We will build 294 much-needed, high quality homes for people on a range of incomes. Our scheme will bring £50m worth of investment into the borough, including £3.8 million to improve local leisure, education, health and transport facilities. This will preserve the architectural heritage of this iconic and historic site for the whole community. Our plans will also create up to 250 jobs, including many apprenticeships and training opportunities for local people.”