Welcome to the May Newsletter of the Belsize Society.
We were able to hold an AGM in March on Zoom, and this issue describes some of the discussion. The AGM included a short presentation about the Belsize Streatery which, as it re-opens, is also the focus of a Camden consultation.
We are hoping to see you in the coming weeks, as we hold the first event for over a year as we emerge from lockdown. Subject to the government roadmap relaxing restrictions, we will welcome members to our summer party in early July.
The Newsletter covers Camden’s recent announcement about plans for 31 Daleham Gardens, where the preferred bidder to develop the property will be a non-profit Community Land Trust. The NW3 CLT is a first for North London, and a key driver for the Trust is to tackle housing affordability. BelSoc committee member Sanya Polescuk describes the Trust’s work.
Thanks to members for contributing to TYCT, and we are really pleased to include this with the Newsletter.
We are celebrating 50 years this year and this Newsletter takes a look at the archives. The Belsize Residents Association has a long tradition of historical walks, and some of the most popular were by Mary Shenai.
We were very sad to hear that Aileen Hammond – who also conducted many Association walks – has passed away. The Newsletter includes some memories of Aileen. We also heard of the passing of former Belsize ward councillor Leila Roy, someone whose positivity about our area was welcomed at many Society events.