The November Newsletter of the Belsize Society is available online.
We have had a busy summer: it was great to see many members at the final in the series of historic walks led by Averil Nottage. This walk covered the second half of the 20th century. We also welcomed many of you to the summer party, which was on a fine, sunny day.
This Newsletter covers some of the planning matters that arose over the summer, centring on Swiss Cottage. The processes around the 100 Avenue Road development now turn to the practicalities of access to the building, and we have been active in pointing out flaws in the proposals. We are highlighting how construction should not adversely affect the Eton Avenue piazza, outside Hampstead theatre. During the summer, we were able to survey views on this area and its importance to residents, businesses, students etc contributing this evidence so that the area is now designated as an asset of community value. This Newsletter touches on the related Swiss Cottage campaign to save ‘Ye Olde Swiss Cottage’ pub.
We report on some of the most significant trees in Haverstock Hill have succumbing to disease; you may also have seen how pillar boxes in our streets have taken on technology. The Newsletter also provides a police view on crime in Belsize.
We feature a book by local, Gordon Lewis, and report on how the Winch is in contention for an award for its contribution to maintaining a heritage building, the Belsize Community Library. The Newsletter also reports on the latest initiatives by local charity Heath Hands, called nature journalling.
The Newsletter includes details of our 2025 carol singing, which will feature a new lead. Hopefully we will see you there.
Enjoy this Newsletter!
