Capturing Cambridge
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Gwydir Street's "controversial" bollards feature in a 1982 news article. Image courtesy Cambridgeshire Collection.

Sam & Pat – Gwydir Street

Sam & Pat in conversation with Beelin

Pat and Sam moved to Cambridge in the 1960’s and witnessed the gentrification of the neighbourhood. They talk about the planning blight and why the Elizabeth Way bridge was built as a dual carriageway.

Elizabeth Way bridge opening, 13th May 1971 (MoC201/71)

Pat helped care for neighbours’ gardens and Sam has been documenting the area through his art over the years.

They befriended a neighbour at number 155 who shared his experiences from before and after the first world war and how society had changed. Sam wishes he had recorded these conversations.

They feel that what has most changed over the years is the people and that there used to be more of a culture of dropping in to see each other.

Whilst connection between residents is different now, the sense of community is still strong.  Their neighbour Beelin encouraged residents to exchange ingredients and helped set up the community group Gwydir Street Friends.

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