Walthamstow Dog Track public meeting

Post date: Jan 24, 2012 7:36:20 AM

Planning Application 2011/0898 and 0907/LB

At a packed meeting on Monday 23rd January 2012 in Rushcroft School over 200 people heard David Scourfield, Head of Development Control, explain the planning process in regard to L&Qs modified plans for the Dog Track. Unusually this meeting was called for residents to hear about the planning process and was chaired by a local resident, Gale Lovell. The interim Director of Development and Leisure, Stephen Boyes, Ron Presswell, Urban Design and Stanley Loue, Case Officer were also present. Unusually no councillor had been invited to take part although the Ward councillors were in the audience.

The two local MPs had been expected but were not able to get away from the House, but sent very strong statements supporting the return of the Dog Racing to the track.

The main changes to the scheme are a reduction from 301 to 294 units of accommodation and reduction from 329 to 316 rooms per hectare. The Nursery to be lower to avoid damaging the view of the listed Tote. Blocks to be lowered to enhance the silhouette of the Tote. Far more leisure provision with the installation of a skatepark, running track around the site and better links to the Pool and Track. A climbing wall on the reverse side of the Tote. Section 106 to provide money for new facilities at the Pool and Track.

David Scourfield explained the planners had not yet had a chance to go through all the information that had been submitted and had not yet reached a view on what they would recommend to the Planning Committee in the Spring. Everyone’s views would be listened to and taken into account when they reached their decision. Once the council made its decision the Mayor would also be expected to have a view.

The meeting was very efficiently managed with a representative of each local road effected being given an opportunity to raise a question. The key issues raised were:

1. Dog Racing should be return to the Stow – the overwhelming view of the very large audience.

2. Full Life time properties to be built

3. Will there be access to the leisure facilities for disabled?

4. Will the very large number of documents that have been submitted be the same as those submitted to the Planning Committee? Any changes will be noted on the council web site.

5. Flooding – concerns about work on the River Ching affecting local residents who already experience flooding. The Environment Agency is carrying out an investigation.

6. Parking – concern that there would not be enough parking so local streets would be used.

7. Privacy – overlooking form the flats was a big issue.

8. Shortage of School places.

For details of the application click here