Hi and welcome to Beoworld
Underneath the front edge there are 2 cross head screws (one at each corner). This allows the top plate to be removed. Be careful when doing this as it is easy to catch & damage the tonearm. There will also be the stop/start button to remove which simply slots in at the right hand side of the front plate and a multi connector to unplug. It can be quite tricky replacing it as there are 2 tabs at the back which are awkward to juggle back into place.
I think you may just get away with lifting it slightly at the left hand side and slipping the belt over the pully.
Chris.
The use of metaphors should be avoided like the plague. They're like a red rag to a bull to me.