THE closure of the Oxford Greyhound Stadium would be a great loss of an important leisure facility within Oxford that supplies important employment to the local area.

The present owner has only his well-being and financial gain at heart, with no regard for the people he and his company employ.

To say that the loss of the Friday Bags meeting played any part in his decision is ridiculous, it was his inaction that caused this.

The Oxford stadium could and should remain an important leisure facility that, with support of new owners, could welcome back speedway to Oxford.

If, as the present owner says, it is a profitable business now, then with increased revenue from speedway it would bring greater reward and increased important employment to the local area. Oxford planners should reject any outline planning requests submitted.

It is my understanding that there is something stating that leisure facilities should be preserved on this site. Hopefully they will have a backbone and reject any building plans as the present site is an important leisure facility that, once lost, will never return.

I see that Andrew Smith MP is in full support of the stadium remaining open.

I do hope that this is the real case and not just a gesture to gain votes.

Come on Andrew, speak with the council and get their backing as well. It is a Labour council after all.

STEVEN BENNETT

Marston Road

Oxford