THE council would consider a plan to re-introduce dog racing to Walthamstow Stadium, according to a report.

But if housing is to be built on the Chingford Road site, features of the “once cherished” stadium must be preserved in any development of the site.

In a move the council describes as ‘unusual’, guidelines outlining the authority’s preferred vision for the future of ‘The Stow’ have been published.

The report, drawn up by consultants Urban Practitioners, recommends the venue's historic features, such as the famous Toteboard, listed facade and kennels are preserved and converted in order to retain the existing ambience.

It said: “This will ensure future visitors and residents will have a clear appreciation of the operation of this once-cherished sport.”

It also suggests that an open space be retained in the middle of the development where the track used to be, which should be connected to the “area beyond”.

The listed buildings should continue to be visible from all parts of the site, and the main entrance should be retained, the report states.

The river Ching, which currently flows underneath the stadium, could be redirected through the development, providing a water feature.

A pedestrian route could be created through the site to create better access to nearby Rushcroft School and any housing development should have a high proportion of family homes.

A council spokesman said: “While many might view affordable housing as the most realistic option, the council would be willing to consider any viable option, including one to bring the track back into use if it was feasible.”

Rick Holloway, of the Save Our Stow (SOS) campaign group which is calling for L&Q to sell the site to a mystery buyer so the dog track can re-open, welcomed the brief.

He said: “I am glad the council feels as strongly as we do that the historic roots of the site should be protected.”

London & Quadrant, the housing association which owns the site, says a planning application for homes will be submitted later this year.

SOS is urging residents who are opposed to the forthcoming application for change of use of the site to write to their local councillors.