On Tuesday 8th May Waltham Forest Council approved a housing scheme for the site of the former greyhound track - The Stow - but the final decision rests with London Mayor - Boris Johnson, who has shown favour for the rival plans of pro-racing millionare Bob Morton. Announcement of the final decision is expected the week beginning Monday May 21st.
As well as the concerns of the greyhound racing industry - regarding numbers of greyhounds - injuries often sustained on the track - and welfare, Boris should also be aware that the industry, sustained on the inherent abuse to greyhounds, is in a welcomed and long-term decline.
With yet more trainers leaving the industry 'in search of an alternative and worthwhile living' and news of recent housing plans for Wimbledon greyhound track, whos racing manager, Gary Mathews, spoke out in January with not subscribing to 'the misguided view held by those from another planet that greyhound racing is currently enjoying a renaissance - its not, simple as!'
Even pro-racing Ricky Holloway of the campaign to re-open The Stow has clear concerns on the finnancial viability of greyhound racing in the UK.
Please sign this petition calling for the London Mayor, Boris Johnson, to NOT consider a re-introduction of greyhound racing as an option for Walthamstow.
Because of the constant regular updates and timescale left on this campaign further action would be good and can be found here.
Dear Boris Johnson
We the undersigned call on you to be aware as to the inherent abuse greyhounds endure for the racing industry, an industry in decline.
We call on you to NOT consider a return of greyhound racing at Walthamstow.
A re-opening would only result in more greyhounds being breed, where numbers have always been a concern. Those greyhounds going on to race will then face the dangers of the track where injuries can be fatal.
Put simply a re-opening of the 'Stow' would only result in perpetuating the plight of greyhounds for an industry in long-term decline.
This year has seen yet more trainers leaving the industry 'in search of an alternative and worthwhile living' and news of recent housing plans for Wimbledon greyhound track, whos racing manager, Gary Mathews, spoke out in January with not subscribing to 'the misguided view held by those from another planet that greyhound racing is currently enjoying a renaissance - its not, simple as!'
Even pro-racing Ricky Holloway of the campaign to re-open The Stow has clear concerns on the finnancial viability of greyhound racing in the UK.
In 2012, we should be focussing and advocating plans that hold ethical and forward-thinking objectives - please show that London can achieve this.
