Council reclaim land where 'neglected' horses had been living

People living near the site next to Chingford Rugby Club in Waltham Way, Chingford, have been calling on the RSPCA and animal welfare charities to rescue the horses due to a lack of care, shelter, food and water. 

The RSPCA stepped in and rescued a third horse at the site in April last year due to health concerns. 

A grey and brown horse remained at the site until they were taken into care on Thursday evening (May 7). 

Landowner Waltham Forest council told the horse owner to vacate the site last month after the original notice to leave was extended from the end of March.

Police assisted the council in removing the two horses after reports of a civil dispute at 7.50pm. 

Deputy leader and cabinet member for environment, Cllr Clyde Loakes, said: "The tenant using council-owned land in Waltham Way was putting the health and safety of horses on the site at risk and we had received numerous complaints that parts of the land were being used as a dumping ground.

"Under the terms of the notice to quit order we served, the tenant was given plenty of time to clear the site and move on but, despite a further warning and a subsequent extension to the original deadline, he failed to do so.

"We have therefore taken back occupancy of the land and are currently exploring the possibility of letting the stable area to a local animal rescue group.

"In the meantime, the horses have been relocated to a safe environment while council officers try to find them a permanent new home where they will be well looked after."

Carla Jones feeding the grey horse back in February 

Carla Jones, 44, of Middleton Avenue, Chingford, was one of many residents who complained to animal welfare charities. 

She said: "I am over the moon and overwhelmed having seen them in such a poor state for such a long time. 

"There were a lot us who tried to get them rescued. 

"I can now drive that road at ease and not feel depressed."