CAMPAIGNERS say a decision to refuse permission for a cinema to be converted into a church sets a precedent for the future of Walthamstow Stadium.

Earlier this month the council turned down the bid to transform the EMD building in Hoe Street, Walthamstow, on the grounds that the site was an important economic, leisure and historical asset.

The Save Our Stow (SOS) group, which wants to see Walthamstow Stadium reopened as a dog racing venue, say the council must now refuse permission for a housing estate at the arena for the same reasons.

Housing association London and Quadrant (L&Q) are currently consulting on its plans to build around 300 homes, a gym-like leisure centre and nursery at the stadium in Chingford Road, Chingford.

The organisation has not yet said when it will submit a planning application.

Ricky Holloway, of SOS, said: "SOS was delighted with the council decision to save the EMD cinema in Waltham Forest and preserve [the] heritage assets of the borough."

He renewed calls for L&Q to accept a bid by businessman Bob Morton, who has offered to buy the site for £9million and reopen it with housing as well.

Mr Holloway added: "On the rejection grounds of the application L&Q face no chance of gaining planning permission for Walthamstow Stadium with that area being 'the jewel in the crown of the borough.'

"Historical assets should be preserved and used for their intended original use."

A group called the Waltham Forest Cinema Trust wants to buy the cinema off of its current owner, the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God (UCKG) and return it to its original use.

Waltham Forest Council leader Chris Robbins described the bid as "viable" and SOS now want him to say the same about their plan to buy the stadium with Mr Morton.

L&Q has always said it does not consider Mr Morton's plans as viable.

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