Walthamstow dog track to go

Walthamstow dog track hosted races for 75 years. A young David Beckham even worked there for pocket money. But falling profits forced its closure in 2008. Since then, its future has been far from clear.

The Mayor of London approved plans for a new residential and leisure complex at the site - but residents are far from happy with the move.

Marcus Powell has this report.

After dealing with hecklers in Bristol who shouted "scum" at Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London answered questions on the future of the Walthamstow dog track. He said he was "determined" to see the development completed.

Opened in 1933, Walthamstow Dog Stadium became a landmark venue and some famous faces have passed through its doors, including Winston Churchill and Brad Pitt.

A young David Beckham used to collect glasses in the restaurant there. The track also featured on the cover of Blur’s 1994 Parklife album.

Falling profits meant it closed in 2008.

In May the plans submitted by housing association London and Quadrant to build 294 homes and a leisure complex at the stadium were approved by Waltham Forest Council.

The final stage came when Boris Johnson gave the go-ahead for the £50 million development.

Opponents say the stadium has cultural value and fear that the promise of community funding that formed part of the application won't materialise.

Campaign group Save Our Stow has asked the Communities Secretary to help but say if that doesn't work then they will apply for for a judicial review.

The objectors to the Walthamstow dog track are campaigning under the banner of Save our Stow.

Campaigners have denounced Boris Johnson after he gave the green light to redevelop Walthamstow dog track.

The Mayor approved plans to build nearly 300 homes on the site of Walthamstow Dog Stadium - sparking fury from campaigners including local MPs Iain Duncan Smith and Stella Creasy.

The stadium closed in 2008 after 75 years of racing due to falling profits. But locals say the venue is a key part of their heritage and their petition to save the Grade II-listed stadium has attracted thousands of signatures.

In May Waltham Forest Council approved a £50 million plan by developers London & Quadrant Housing Trust (L&Q) to build 294 homes, a community-run sports centre, pocket allotments and a children's nursery on the site.