- Street Refuse
The installed grit bins providing refuse facilities for the flats above the commercial premises at 1-3 DH, have proved successful. The 6 month trial period for the bins installed under the ‘Flats above Shops’ initiative, concludes shortly, and Louitha Grieves will then report. Andrew has confirmed the success, and requested the bins stay permanently. Camden’s next initiative will be for food waste provision for flats above shops. Provision of similar bins to cope with business refuse occasionally present overnight, because of collection sequencing, is not being offered. Residents should report issues to Jon Dean at Camden. Generally, residents are encouraged to take emptied bins off the pavement as soon as possible. Hopefully, by arrangement, neighbours can assist when owners are away.
- Highways/Traffic
Patrick has chased regarding the long outstanding renewal of the surface painted 20mph signage at each end of the road, lost when resurfacing occurred. Signage is sought at the Willow Rd junction and close to the Rosslyn Hill junction. DHRA are maintaining good relations with the consultants responsible for the overarching highway plans for the neighbourhood. Update on the proposals awaited. Camden are shortly to undertake speed monitoring again in DH following representations from redding. Of the range of possible additional measures.
- Security/Policing
Sally attended the recent Safer Neighbourhoods meeting. Police focus remains on store theft in the High St, the most prevalent crime activity in the area. There is an increased police presence, both uniformed and plain clothes. A local store WhatsApp group has been established to alert stores of activity. Four prolific offenders have been arrested. Anecdotally, there appears to be a recent reduction in offences. There is now funding for sticker marking / national registration of bikes, as a theft deterrence and reclaim measure. Residents are again alerted to mobile phone snatching in the area. Andrew succumbed to this outside Tescos earlier this year. Assailant mounted the pavement on an electric bike whilst a text was being typed. Residents are encouraged to report antisocial behaviour including dumping of Lime bikes. The cafe on the heath has been the location for a number of youth fights recently. Our thanks go to Moses who averted an attempted theft of tools from telephone repair support vans, while work was underway. This was in broad daylight by two masked raiders in a black Vauxhall with its number plates absent. Vigilance is needed in regard to car thefts. Avoid leaving anything visible in a parked car. Sally welcomes any subjects for airing at the forthcoming June meeting. Additional attendees are welcome.
- Planning
HPS/ 26 Rosslyn Hill Application Scheme for 3 flats submitted- retention of the front facade only- remainder demolished with new construction behind. Andrew can respond on behalf of DHRA if any adjacent DH residents have concerns. Views awaited. -HPS/ Outstanding terrace screening. andrew requested developer update on design proposals and programme – expected in a couple of weeks. -Stables Building -Appeal lodged 19/2/25 re 2nd storey version of annex house to rear of DH refused by Camden. Inspectorate notices awaited.
- Community Involvement/Contact
Linda confirms contact with new residents at 12,28,30,37 and 44, all of whom Sally has added to the WhatsApp group. Additionally there are new owners at 49, work is proceeding on 47, and 45 is empty. New members are welcome to DHRA. We are also seeking additional committee members. Please do stay aware of neighbours who may need assistance.
- Hampstead Post Office
Peter Kohl has kept us abreast of franchise intentions regarding Hampstead Post Office. Marc Hutchinson has written on behalf of The Heath and Hampstead Society to Gareth Thomas MP the Parliamentary Secretary of State with this remit. Marc has stressed the importance of this community facility, and the wish of H&HS to engage with the franchisees.
- AOB
Bank Account.
Mark has closed the DHRA account as a result of the imposition of bank charges. He currently holds £242.76 of funds on behalf of DHRA.
Summer AGM and Party Tom
Watts will again be approached regarding St John’s garden room/ terrace as a venue. It would be necessary for DHRA to obtain event insurance and this will be investigated.
Potential Planting Enhancements to DH
The shrubbery along the flank of St John’s was removed at the time of the major renovation of the church.
It would be most beneficial to the street scene if DH residents could fund some replacement shrubbery in this location, should this be acceptable to St John’s.
Andrew will approach Tom Watts to see if this could be considered by the church.