Barnet Society committee members stepping down (From Times Series)

Barnet Society committee members stepping down

6:09pm Thursday 28th February 2013 in News By Chris Hewett

A group fighting to “preserve the identity” of High Barnet is looking for new committee members to lead future campaigns.

Three of the Barnet Society’s organising committee, including the chairman, vice chairman and planning officer, are stepping down before the summer.

And in order to keep pushing to save landmarks and the green belt from being engulfed by urban sprawl, the society is looking for volunteers to step forward.

Current chairman Judith Clouston, who has led the group for the past three years, said: “We’re experiencing a similar problem to that of many organisations – not everyone has the time to devote to it.”

The society was initially founded in 1945 to protect swathes of green belt land surrounding the High Barnet area.

Members are regularly involved in campaigning for and against various planning decisions affecting the area.

Judith, an architect, said: “The green belt is fundamental to the character of the town. Apart from being very pleasant for people to enjoy with their children and walk their dogs, it makes High Barnet the place it is.

“We’re protecting the identity of this historic market town and if this protection is removed, it becomes a sprawling urban landscape like everywhere else.”

Vice-chairman Gail Laser and planning officer Derek Epstein will also step down from their roles before the summer due to other commitments.

A few applicants have already put themselves forward but the society is hoping more members, as well as those new to the group, will come forward.

Judith said: “We’re certainly not ready to pack up yet. We will all still be involved in the group but we’re hoping to get some more people apply – it is definitely worthwhile.”