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
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.
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