Waltham Forest Liberal Democrats say the confusion around the reported submission of a planning application for nearly 500 flats on the Walthamstow Stadium site has renewed their determination to fight for a better solution. Despite reports, London and Quadrant have not submitted a planning application for the high profile site.

Liberal Democrat Leader John Macklin has held discussions with the Save Our Stow campaigners, businessman Nick Budimir who is interested in buying the site for leisure use and London and Quadrant. He said:

“We must not have a future where Waltham Forest is full of houses and flats but without the leisure and community facilities that residents need. For many years people flocked to the Stow to enjoy themselves and take a break from everyday life. It’s important that future residents also have the opportunity to enjoy their leisure time locally.

“The end of the relationship between London and Quadrant and Yoo Capital illustrates how dysfunctional and confused the whole process has become. Nick Budimir’s proposal currently looks like the most credible and attractive option on the table. We want to maintain the stadium’s long tradition as a place where local people can take pleasure and enjoy their leisure. I urge London and Quadrant to open their mind to the leisure option.

“I would like to see all the interested parties sit down around a table and talk through the options. I will do anything I can to help.”