In conversation with Maureen Betts, Chair of the Primrose Hill Community Association
Q. Where is your favourite place in Primrose Hill?
A. The top of the hill itself for its unrivalled, spectacular views. It’s the first place we take our visitors.
Q. What are the best things about Primrose Hill?
A. The elegant architecture of our streets, squares and town-houses and being able to walk to the West End through beautiful parks in half an hour. Also its strong sense of community and safety.
Q. If you could make one change to Primrose Hill what would it be?
A. That people deal with refuse more responsibly which would improve the environment for residents, businesses and visitors, particularly on the Regent’s Park Road bridge which is a gateway to the area.
Q. What do you think has been Primrose Hill’s most important campaign in your years here?
A. Successfully saving the Boys’ Home school Chapel building at 109a Regent’s Park Road in 1996. It is an important part of the conservation area. The proposed replacement high block would have blighted the street-scape.
Q. What are your thoughts on Primrose Hill’s reputation as being a celebrity enclave?
A. It’s great fun, especially when I’m no expert in recognising them! The upside is the support many give to the community and the downside is the occasional overpopulation of paparazzi on Regent’s Park Road!
Q. With much of your time devoted to volunteering do you find space for other pursuits?
A. I’m a keen watercolourist, I love playing tennis and ACOL bridge and am an avid reader and traveller!
Q. What events have you most enjoyed at the Community Centre?
A. We had a Country and Western evening complete with bales of hay from Kentish Town farm. Another great occasion was a Cockney night with a pearly King and Queen. Last year’s Motown evening was a huge hit and we are planning another for January 29 2016. Then there is the annual Summer Fair in Chalcot Square which brings the community together.
Q. What has been the best achievement of the Community Association during your time as chair?
A. The Association’s key role in saving our local Library and its ability to provide an essential day-to-day resource.
Q. The success of our community organisations relies mainly on volunteers. What would you say to people to recommend becoming involved?
A. It’s fun, you meet lots of different people and it makes you feel more part of the local community. I would like to thank all those people who currently volunteer in both the Library and the Community Centre and the local businesses who continually give their support.
As told to Phil Cowan
Primrose Hill Community Association
29 Hopkinson’s Place
Fitzroy Road, NW1 8TN
O20 7586 8327
www.phca.cc
@PrimroseHill_CC
To get involved email info@phca.cc
