Inside Mill Hill and Edgware is a prominent local news and community platform that serves the residents of Mill Hill and Edgware in North London. The platform offers timely updates on various topics, including local events, infrastructure projects, educational developments, and community initiatives.
Community Grants and Local Initiatives
In a recent development, property developer Ballymore has awarded over £26,000 in grants to twelve local charities and community groups in Edgware.
The Edgware Town Centre Community Fund aims to support initiatives that unite communities, promote health and well-being, champion young people, and enhance the public realm. Among the recipients are The Hive Foundation, Stonegrove Community Trust, and Mill Hill Community Choir, each receiving up to £3,000 to further their community-focused projects .
Educational Developments
The Mill Hill Education Group has expanded its network by merging with St Joseph’s In The Park, a leading independent preparatory school in Hertford.
This merger brings the total number of schools under the Mill Hill Education Group to eight, following previous mergers with Lyonsdown School and Keble Prep School in North London in 2022 .
Additionally, two schools, Heathfield School in Ascot and Westbrook Hay School in Hemel Hempstead, have joined the Mill Hill Education Group. These additions aim to provide enhanced educational opportunities and resources for students across the network .
Religious and Cultural Developments
A significant development for the local Jewish community is the approval of the Mill Hill eruv by Barnet Councillors. The eruv, a religious boundary that allows Orthodox Jews to carry and push items on the Sabbath, will connect existing eruvs in Edgware and Hendon.
Despite some objections regarding aesthetics and community integration, the project received overwhelming support, with 400 letters backing the proposal .
In another religious development, Edgware and District Reform Synagogue (EDRS) and Hendon Reform Synagogue have merged to form a unified community.
This merger, supported by an overwhelming vote from both congregations, aims to strengthen the community and enhance religious services for members across the region .
Infrastructure and Housing Projects
Ballymore has submitted plans to develop 3,365 new homes in Edgware, including 1,150 affordable units.
The proposed regeneration project encompasses the Broadwalk Shopping Centre and adjacent areas, aiming to create a vibrant town centre with new housing, retail spaces, and public amenities .
In Mill Hill, a significant housing development has been approved after intervention by Mayor Sadiq Khan.
The original proposal for a 450-home development on green belt land was refused by Barnet Council. However, following the Mayor’s call-in, the development was approved with an increased allocation of 40% affordable housing, including social rent and shared ownership units .
Community Challenges and Responses
A concerning issue arose when a family in Edgware was left in temporary hotel accommodation for nearly five months due to unresolved repair works in their housing association flat.
The family, including a mother and her disabled daughter, faced significant challenges during this period. Notting Hill Genesis, the housing association, has apologized for the delays and is working with Barnet Council to expedite the necessary repairs and provide suitable housing for the family .
Inside Mill Hill and Edgware continues to serve as a vital source of information and a platform for community engagement. Through its coverage of local developments, challenges, and initiatives, the platform plays a crucial role in fostering a connected and informed community in Mill Hill and Edgware.
