The Mayor, Boris Johnson, has approved a scheme to redevelop Walthamstow dog track in east London. Campaigners and local MPs had opposed plans, approved by the council in May, to build nearly 300 homes and a leisure centre at the Grade II listed site
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.
Mayor Boris Johnson shouted back at protesters who heckled him at an event and called him "Tory scum".
Boris Johnson has approved plans for nearly 300 homes to be built at Walthamstow dog track, despite protests from campaigners and MPs