This week in Barnet:

• The Licensing and General Purposes Committee discussed a report on the Council's Health, Safety and Wellbeing targets for 2023/24, approved a new Licensing Policy for 2025 to 2030, agreed that there should be no changes to the borough's polling places and polling districts, and noted a review of the May 2024 and July 2024 elections.

Licensing and General Purposes Committee - Thursday 07 November 2024

The Licensing and General Purposes Committee met this week to discuss a range of issues, including the Council's health and safety performance in 2023/24, the adoption of a revised Licensing Policy, polling arrangements for future elections, and a review of the May 2024 and July 2024 elections.

Annual Health, Safety and Wellbeing Report 2023/24

The committee considered a report on the Council’s health and safety performance, which was presented by Mike Kumi, Head of the Safety, Health and Well-being service. As we saw in the last email, which covered the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting of Wednesday 18 September 2024, the council has faced significant budget challenges, and this has inevitably had an impact on service delivery. This was acknowledged in the report, which identified a number of areas where performance could be improved. However, it is important to note that the council has a legal duty to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of its employees, and this includes providing a safe working environment, adequate training, and appropriate equipment.

The report highlighted an increase in the number of reported accidents and incidents, which Mr Kumi attributed to a campaign to encourage reporting, particularly of verbal assaults and near misses, which are often underreported. He argued that this increase in reporting was a positive sign, as it showed that staff were more confident in reporting incidents.

The report also identified stress and musculoskeletal injuries as the two most common causes of work-related ill health. These are common problems in many workplaces, and the council is not alone in facing these challenges. The report highlighted a number of external factors that may be contributing to these problems, including the cost of living crisis and the current armed conflicts. However, it also noted that the council was providing a range of support services to staff, including counselling and financial advice.

The report concluded by setting out a number of priorities for the next two years, including:

• A reduction of at least 10% in the number of days lost to stress-related and musculoskeletal injuries
• A review and improvement of statutory building compliance monitoring in community schools
• The implementation of a Workplace Wellbeing Action Plan

The committee noted the report and agreed the priorities for the next two years.

Revised Licensing Policy 2025 - 2030

The Licensing Act 2003 requires councils to prepare a Licensing Policy, setting out how they will carry out their licensing functions. These include licensing pubs and clubs, off-licenses, and late-night refreshment premises, as well as regulating taxi and private hire services. Councils are required to review their Licensing Policy every five years.

The committee considered a report on the proposed revised Licensing Policy 2025–2030. The revised policy had been subject to public consultation and 24 responses had been received. The committee discussed a number of issues relating to the policy, including:

• The low number of responses to the consultation
• The effectiveness of the cumulative impact zone (CIZ) in Burnt Oak
• The role of the Licensing Action Group, which was formed five months ago to combat the problem of male-dominated cafes in the borough, and their engagement with local councillors

The committee approved the revised policy and recommended that it be adopted at the next full meeting of the council.

Review of Polling Districts and Polling Places 2024

The committee received a report from John Bailey, the head of electoral services, on the compulsory five-yearly review of the borough’s polling places and polling districts. As you will recall from my previous emails, for example my email covering the Children, Education & Safeguarding Committee meeting of 2024-08-03, the way in which elections are run can have a significant impact on the outcome. This is particularly true in local elections, where turnout is often low and a small number of votes can make a big difference. Ensuring that polling stations are accessible to all voters is therefore essential to ensuring that elections are fair and democratic.

This review, however, recommended no changes be made to current arrangements.

The committee received representations from two councillors regarding problems with existing polling places:

• Councillor Stock highlighted parking problems at Millbrook Park School, which was used as a polling place in the last election, and proposed that polling be moved to Frith Manor School. Mr Bailey responded that this had been considered but rejected on the grounds that 89% of voters lived closer to Millbrook Park School.
  
• Whitings Hill Primary School in High Barnet had been used as a polling place in the last two elections. The Headteacher at Whitings Hill, Deepa Samani, explained that using the school as a polling place was very disruptive, particularly as the last two elections had taken place on consecutive years, and that she believed it would be better to use a venue that was not a school.
  

The committee agreed with the Returning Officer’s proposals and agreed that no changes should be made to the borough’s polling districts or polling places.

GLA Election May 2024 and UKPG Election July 2024 - Election Projects Review

The committee received a report from Cath Shaw, Barnet’s Interim Chief Executive, Returning Officer and Electoral Registration Officer, on the conduct of the Mayor of London and London Assembly elections in May 2024 and the UK Parliamentary General Election in July 2024.

The report provided a summary of the two election projects, including the turnout at both elections and the challenges posed by both the new requirements of the Elections Act 2022 and the close proximity of the two elections. The report also highlighted the impact of Voter ID and Postal Vote handling.

The Elections Act 2022 introduced a requirement for voters to show photo ID at polling stations. This was the most significant change to the way in which elections are run in the UK for many years, and it was opposed by many who argued that it would disenfranchise voters who do not have photo ID, such as older people and people from ethnic minority groups.

The close proximity of the two elections, just two months apart, also presented a challenge for the council, and for other local authorities across the UK, as it meant that staff had to work long hours to deliver both elections.

The committee noted the report.

This week in Barnet:

• The Overview and Scrutiny Committee debated the proposed increase to resident fees and charges for 2025/26, including parking charges, visitor permits, and bulky waste collection, and discussed the ongoing but slow transition away from reliance on Capita contracts.
• The Local Pension Board discussed updates on the administration and performance of the London Borough of Barnet Pension Fund.
• The Planning Committee (New) approved applications to build a new Church Hall at St Mary the Virgin Church of England and to change the use of 7 Northfield Road from a dwelling house to a Class C2 children's home¹.
• The Licensing and General Purposes Committee met on Thursday but no minutes or transcript of the meeting has been made available.

Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Monday 28 October 2024

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met this week to review the council's finances, including a forecast overspend, and proposed fees and charges for 2025/26. They also discussed the progress of bringing Capita services back in-house. As we have seen in previous emails, most recently my email of 2024-10-26, the council faces a number of financial challenges, and the performance of Capita contracts has been a recurring theme in these emails.

The committee agreed to set up an all-party reference group to oversee the transition of Capita contracts back in-house and to request that further investigations be undertaken by officers in relation to debt recovery, overpayments, and business rates collection.

Particular concerns were raised over the proposed 88% and 94% increases to the cost of visitor parking permits, the impact of increasing charges for bulky waste collection on fly-tipping and the impact of increasing charges on residents given the cost-of-living crisis.

Local Pension Board - Tuesday 29 October 2024

The Local Pension Board met to receive updates on the administration and performance of the London Borough of Barnet Pension Fund. The meeting also discussed the annual accounts and external audit, data improvement plan, and the board’s annual report.

This is a statutory committee that is responsible for assisting the administering authority (in this case, Barnet Council) in securing compliance with the Local Government Pension Scheme Regulations, and for reviewing the administration of the pension fund. The Board is made up of councillors, scheme members and employer representatives.

The meeting discussed a number of issues, including:

• An overpayment of £20.477m to the pension fund in 2020/21 that was intended to cover employer contributions for the period 2020 to 2023.
• The need to improve the process for reconciling contributions made to the pension fund.
• The progress of a “historical leaver exercise” that is being undertaken by West Yorkshire Pension Fund² to correct historical member data.
• The performance of West Yorkshire Pension Fund in administering the Barnet Pension Fund, including a data breach that had occurred.
• A proposal to transfer assets from Enfield Pensions Fund to the Barnet fund.
• The Board’s forward work plan for 2024/25 and its communications and engagement strategy.

Planning Committee (New) - Wednesday 30 October 2024

The Planning Committee approved the demolition and replacement of St Mary the Virgin Church Hall in High Barnet, and the change the use of a house in 7 Northfield Road to a children’s home for up to three children. It rejected two residential alterations at Fenton House and 78 Kings Drive, and granted a partial approval for the removal of some trees in Farifield Oakeigh Park North.

Licensing and General Purposes Committee - Thursday 31 October 2024

The Licensing and General Purposes Committee met this week, but no minutes or transcript of the meeting has been made available. This committee is responsible for a range of licensing functions, including the licensing of taxis, gambling premises, and the sale of alcohol. It is also responsible for the council's constitution, and for overseeing the council's elections.

This week in Barnet:

• The Strategic Planning Committee debated the provision of affordable housing and approved an application to redevelop Intec House, 49 Moxon Street, Barnet.
• The Council marked the anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel, noted the death of two former councillors, and discussed its achievements and finances.

Strategic Planning Committee - Monday 14 October 2024

The Strategic Planning Committee considered an application to demolish Intec House, 49 Moxon Street, and build a part 3 to part 8 storey building providing 113 homes and 332 square metres of employment space.

This was the third application the committee had considered for the site. The first application, for 92 homes, was approved by the committee in 2023 and included 35% affordable housing. The second application, for 98 homes, was considered by the committee in July 2024. The developer had appealed against non-determination of this application, and a public inquiry had been scheduled for November. That application provided no affordable housing. This third application was the result of negotiations between council officers and the developer. The new scheme would provide 17 social rented units, equating to 15% affordable housing.

The committee heard from a number of objectors to the scheme, many of whom were concerned about loss of daylight and sunlight to their properties. The developer acknowledged that there would be some impact on a number of properties, but argued that this was unavoidable if the scheme was to deliver the proposed level of affordable housing.

The developer also provided a Viability Assessment¹ arguing that the scheme would not be viable if it were required to provide more than 15% affordable housing. The council’s legal advisor informed the committee that the developer had indicated that they would withdraw their appeal against non-determination of the second application if this third application were approved.

The committee voted to approve the application subject to a Section 106² agreement and the listed conditions.

Council - Tuesday 15 October 2024

The full Council met this week. The meeting began with tributes to two former councillors, David Clarke and John Aptal, who had recently passed away. The council then stood for a minute's silence to mark the anniversary of the Hamas attack on southern Israel on 7 October 2023.

The meeting then debated two motions, one from the Labour administration celebrating their achievements in office and one from the Conservative opposition condemning the government’s decision to link the Winter Fuel Allowance to Pension Credit.

The Labour motion celebrated a number of achievements including a £97 million investment in the borough’s roads and pavements, exceeding Friends of the Earth’s target for electric vehicle charging points, and fixing the borough’s CCTV network.

In response, the Conservative group acknowledged some of the administration’s successes but warned that they were spending the council’s reserves at an unsustainable rate and that the council was heading for bankruptcy.

This disagreement over the council’s financial position echoed a similar disagreement during the debate on the Conservative motion that criticised the government’s decision to stop paying the Winter Fuel Allowance to all pensioners. The motion argued that this decision would push pensioners into fuel poverty.

The Labour administration defended the government’s decision, pointing out that it was necessary in the context of a national economic crisis. They argued that the decision to link the Winter Fuel Allowance to Pension Credit would ensure that it reached those most in need. They also highlighted the government's decision to maintain the triple lock on state pensions, which would see pensioners receive a 4% increase in their pensions in 2025.

The meeting also heard a number of questions from councillors to the leader of the council and to cabinet members. These questions covered a wide range of issues, including potholes, planning, and the provision of children’s services. The council also received reports on a number of other items, including Ofsted’s recent inspection of the council’s children’s services, which found that the service was “Good” overall.

This week in Barnet:

• The Governance, Audit, Risk Management and Standards Committee (GARMS) heard updates on corporate risks, treasury management performance, complaints and internal audit.
• The Cabinet voted to formally approve the sale of 213 West Hendon Broadway and to adopt a new Religious Education syllabus.
• The Planning Committee (New) deferred a decision on the demolition of St. Mary’s Church Hall and approved a number of applications for electric vehicle charging points.

Governance, Audit, Risk Management and Standards Committee (GARMS) - Monday 07 October 2024

The Governance, Audit, Risk Management and Standards Committee (GARMS) met this week to receive updates on a range of issues, including the council’s financial situation, the progress of external audits, and the risk of latent defects in the council’s Colindale office. This committee plays an important role in ensuring that the council is well-managed and that public money is being spent wisely. They provide independent oversight of the council's activities, and they are responsible for holding the council to account for its performance.

External Audits

The committee heard updates on the progress of the council's external audits. External audits are carried out by independent auditors, and they are designed to ensure that the council's accounts are accurate and that its financial management is sound. The committee expressed significant dissatisfaction with the lack of progress made by BDO on the 2020/21 external audit. The committee was particularly concerned about the number of “basic” queries that the auditors were still raising with the council four years after the end of the financial year.

The committee received a more positive update on the progress of the 2023/24 audit, which is being conducted by Grant Thornton.

The council’s external auditors are appointed by the council’s Audit Committee, which is a separate committee that is responsible for overseeing the council's audit function. The Audit Committee is made up of councillors and independent members. The external auditors report to the Audit Committee, and the Audit Committee reports to the full council.

Corporate Risk

The committee also heard an update on corporate risks (Quarterly Risks Report (Q1 2024/25)). The committee discussed the risk that the council may not be able to secure all of the funding required for its sustainability programme, and the risk of latent defects at the council's Colindale office. As we have seen in previous emails, for example my email on 2024-09-28, the council faces a number of financial challenges.

The committee also expressed concern that the council had not undertaken a full tabletop exercise¹ to test its business continuity plans in the last six months. A tabletop exercise is a structured discussion of a simulated emergency situation. Participants review their roles and the effectiveness of their response plans during the emergency. Tabletop exercises can be used to identify gaps in existing plans or procedures.

The committee asked officers to report back on a number of issues, including the total amount of funding required for the sustainability programme, the measures that the council is taking to recover costs from the company who built the Colindale office, and whether the council has any plans to undertake a full tabletop exercise in the near future.

Treasury Management

The committee also received an update on treasury management. Treasury management is the process of managing the council's cash flow, investments, and borrowing. As we have seen in previous emails, for example my email on 2024-09-28, the council's finances are under significant pressure. This is due to a number of factors, including rising inflation and interest rates, and the increasing cost of providing services. The committee expressed concern about the increasing level of debt that the council is carrying and asked officers to report back on the steps that the council is taking to manage this.

The committee asked officers to report back on a number of issues, including the impact that falling interest rates will have on the Brent Cross Cricklewood regeneration programme, the steps that the council is taking to bring its capital programme within budget, and the work of the Adults Financial Sustainability Board.

Complaints

The committee also received an update on complaints. The committee noted that the number of complaints received by the council had decreased in 2023/24, as had the number of complaints that were upheld. The committee heard that the council had undertaken a comprehensive review of its complaints process, and that this had led to a number of improvements. However, the committee also noted that the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman (LGSCO) had been critical of the council's handling of complaints in the past, and that there was still room for improvement.

The committee asked officers to report back on the effectiveness of the new policy on managing unreasonable customer behaviour, and to provide further details of the case studies of partially upheld complaints relating to the Street Scene service.

Internal Audit

The committee also received an update on internal audit. Internal audit is a function that is carried out by the council's own staff. It is designed to provide independent assurance to the council that its systems and processes are working effectively. The committee heard that the internal audit team had completed six reviews during the quarter and that there were no high-priority findings. The committee also heard that the new Head of Internal Audit, Adam Karmson, will be in post on 4 November 2024.

The committee asked officers to report back on the work of PwC in reviewing the outstanding high-priority actions from the recent audit of the council’s Business Continuity Plan.

Cabinet - Tuesday 08 October 2024

The Cabinet met this week to discuss a range of issues, including the council's revenue budget for 2025/26, the sale of a former council office building, and a new Religious Education syllabus for schools in Barnet.

Revenue Budget 2025/26

The Cabinet approved the revenue budget for 2025/26, which included a proposal to increase fees and charges for a range of council services. This is something that is likely to affect many residents of Barnet, as it will mean that they will have to pay more for services such as parking, planning applications, and the use of council leisure facilities. The Cabinet argued that these increases were necessary to meet the financial challenges faced by the council, but this is likely to be unpopular with residents. The council is now required to consult on the proposals, and it will be interesting to see how residents respond.

Sale of 213 West Hendon Broadway

The Cabinet also approved the formal sale of the former council offices at 213 West Hendon Broadway to Barratt Metropolitan Limited Liability Partnership. The site is to be redeveloped to provide new homes, a GP surgery and commercial space. As we have seen in previous emails, this site was previously occupied by Barnet House, which was the council’s main office building until it was closed in 2022 and demolished in 2023.

Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education

The Cabinet also approved a new Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education (RE). This is a document that sets out the curriculum for RE in all community schools in Barnet. The new syllabus has been developed over the past two years, and it is designed to reflect the diversity of religious beliefs and worldviews in the borough.

In the words of one of the Councillors in attendance:

“The reason that we have used the approach that we've used is because of our absolute focus on religious education and the importance of religious education and the religious diversity of Barnet.”

This new syllabus will be introduced in schools from September 2025.

Planning Committee (New) - Wednesday 09 October 2024

The Planning Committee met this week to consider a number of applications for planning permission, including an application for the demolition of a locally listed church hall in High Barnet, an application to add a storey to a block of flats in Finchley, and a number of applications for electric vehicle charging points.

St. Mary’s Church Hall, Camlet Way

The committee considered an application to demolish and rebuild the locally listed[^4] church hall at St Mary the Virgin Church of England Church on Camlet Way in High Barnet. The church argued that the existing hall was in a poor structural condition, and that it was no longer fit for purpose. They proposed to build a new hall that would be larger and more accessible.

The Planning Officer recommended refusal of the application, on the grounds that it would result in the demolition of a non-designated heritage asset, would represent inappropriate development in the Green Belt, and would harm the character and appearance of the Monken Hadley Conservation Area. However, the committee voted against the officer's recommendation, and were minded to approve the application. They deferred their decision to the next meeting to allow the applicant to provide further information.

Marwood Court, Gruneisen Road

The committee also considered an application to add a storey to Marwood Court, a block of flats on Gruneisen Road in Finchley. The application had been approved at the previous meeting, but had been brought back to committee because the report to attendees had contained incorrect information about the height of the proposed building. The error was due to an officer incorrectly scaling the applicant's drawings, which the committee was assured were correct.

The new building would be 2.3 metres taller than the existing building, and the proposal attracted objections from local residents, who argued that it would be overbearing and would harm the character and appearance of the area. The committee voted to approve the application, despite the objections.

Electric Vehicle Charging Points

The committee also considered a number of applications for the installation of electric vehicle charging points. These applications are becoming increasingly common, as the government seeks to encourage the take-up of electric vehicles. As we have seen in previous emails, for example my email on 2024-08-25, the council is working to install more electric vehicle charging points across the borough.

The committee approved all of the applications, subject to conditions.

This week in Barnet:

• The East Area Committee met on Monday to discuss funding applications for improvements to Church Lane Community Garden, pavements in Hayes Crescent, and a new inclusive playground at New Southgate Recreation Ground.
• The Planning Committee (New) approved, subject to conditions, applications for floodlighting at East Barnet School, the conversion of a house into flats at 21 Hampstead Gardens, and the construction of additional flats at Marwood Court, 4 Woodside Avenue, and Torrington Court.

East Area Committee - Monday 23 September 2024

The East Area Committee is one of six Area Committees in Barnet. Area Committees play an important role in local government, bringing decision-making closer to the communities they serve. They are made up of councillors who represent the wards within the area, and they have delegated budgets to spend on local projects. This is similar to the role played by ward councillors in some other local authorities. You may recall that in Tower Hamlets, for example, each ward councillor has a devolved budget that they can use to fund small projects within their ward. Area Committees also have a role in scrutinising the work of the council and in representing the views of local people. They often hold public meetings to give residents the opportunity to raise issues and ask questions of councillors and council officers.

The East Area Committee met this week to consider a number of items, including:

• An update on a resident issue concerning pavement replacement works on Finchley Road in Temple Fortune
• An update on the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and Road Safety & Parking fund budgets
• An application for £57,282 of CIL funding for Church Lane Community Garden in East Finchley
• An application for £138,767.48 of CIL funding to relay pavements on Hayes Crescent in Golders Green
• An application for £129,901.77 of CIL funding to part fund a new inclusive playground at New Southgate Recreation Ground in Brunswick Park

The committee approved the application for funding for improvements to Church Lane Community Garden, but deferred the applications for funding for the pavements in Hayes Crescent and the inclusive playground at New Southgate Recreation Ground to the next meeting. This is a common occurrence at Area Committee meetings, as committees often need more information or clarification before they can make a decision on an application.

There were robust discussions about the application for funding to relay the pavements on Hayes Crescent. The committee was concerned that funding this scheme from the CIL budget could set a precedent for other councillors to apply for funding for similar schemes, potentially undermining the council's existing pavement repair programme. As Councillor Alison Moore said:

Challenges, I think it does set a precedent and I hesitate to use the term jumping the queue because it sounds like I'm being aggressive and unpleasant and I don't mean it that way. But lots of us have challenging roads in our wards and we argue their case within that set of objective criteria.

The committee also expressed concern that approving an application for funding for a new inclusive playground at New Southgate Recreation Ground without having had the opportunity to see detailed designs for the playground would be an inappropriate use of public money. As Councillor Jennifer Grocock explained:

Basically, every application that's come forward, we always want to see more detail and idea of the equipment, albeit it might need to be slightly adjusted. But all we've got is an aerial shot. Thank you.

Planning Committee (New) - Thursday 26 September 2024

The Planning Committee is responsible for making decisions on planning applications. In making their decisions, the committee must consider a range of factors, including local and national planning policies, the views of local people and the advice of council officers.

This week the committee considered a number of planning applications from across the borough.

One of the applications was for the installation of floodlighting to the existing all-weather sports pitch at East Barnet School. Applications for floodlighting often attract objections from local residents who are concerned about noise and light pollution, as well as the potential for increased anti-social behaviour. You may recall that in a previous email I reported on a similar application for floodlighting at the Hendon Cricket Club, which was ultimately withdrawn by the applicant after residents raised concerns. In this case, a number of local residents attended the meeting to object to the application.

Mr Costas Nicola, a local resident, argued that the floodlights would create an intrusive green glow and would allow the pitch to be used later into the evening, exacerbating problems with noise pollution. However, the committee heard from other residents who were in favour of the application. Ms Emma Godley, who lives close to the pitch, explained that the sounds of people using the pitch were joyous, happy and enthusiastic sounds…delightful…not overly loud…just a happy, healthy, cheerful hum and argued that the benefits to the community of extending the hours of use of the pitch outweighed the potential downsides.

The committee voted to approve the application, subject to conditions. In making their decision, the committee heard from a planning officer that the floodlights would be fitted with maximum cut-off louvers and maximum nine degree tilt to reduce light spill and that their use would be restricted to 9pm on weekdays and 4pm on weekends.

The committee also considered an application for the conversion of a house into flats at 21 Hampstead Gardens. The application attracted objections from local residents who raised concerns about parking. The committee heard from two residents who explained that a number of houses in the area had already been converted into flats and that this had led to a parking shortage. However, a planning officer explained that the conversion of the house into flats would actually reduce the number of parking permits that would be available to residents of the property. This is because single family dwellings can apply for two permits, whereas flats are subject to a controlled parking zone (CPZ) agreement that restricts the number of permits available.

This illustrates the complex issues that must be considered when assessing planning applications.

The meeting also considered a number of other applications, including applications for extensions and alterations to Marwood Court, 4 Woodside Avenue, and Torrington Court, and an application for the installation of an electric vehicle charging point at 77-81 Russell Lane.

The committee also refused an application for the removal of a number of trees at The Thomas Watson Cottage Homes in Leecroft Road. This application had been submitted on the grounds that the trees were implicated in subsidence damage at two of the properties on the estate. You may recall that in a previous email I explained that trees are protected in Barnet under the council's Tree Preservation Orders. These orders are made by the council to protect trees that are considered to be of amenity value.

...no sooner was it done than the area in front of Dudley Court was dug up. When I asked workmen why, they said the were the wrong colour!

The committee was concerned about the loss of amenity if the trees were removed, and also about the financial implications of approving the application. This is because if the trees are removed and it is later found that they were not the cause of the damage, the council could be liable for compensation costs. In this case, the committee felt that the potential benefits of removing the trees did not outweigh the potential costs, and they voted to refuse the application.

This week in Barnet:

• The Cabinet discussed the council's financial situation, including a forecast overspend of £20 million, and approved a number of measures to address the situation.
• The Overview and Scrutiny Committee noted the Council Tax Support Scheme, approved the Youth Homelessness Task and Finish Group Report, and requested more detailed financial reporting from the Chief Finance Officer.
• The Strategic Planning Committee granted planning permission to St George North London Ltd and Sainsbury’s Supermarkets Ltd for a mixed-use development, and debated fire safety and the mix of housing.
• The West Area Committee was scheduled to consider applications for Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy funding and to discuss road safety schemes.
• The Safer Communities Partnership Board reviewed crime statistics, the work of the Violence Against Women and Girls Delivery Group, and discussed safety in parks.
• The Health & Wellbeing Board discussed the Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy, the Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment, the Suicide Prevention Strategy, and the Combating Drugs Partnership Board, and noted the increase in antisemitism and the success of Project ADDER.

Cabinet - Tuesday 17 September 2024

The Cabinet met this week to discuss a range of issues, including the council's financial situation, the outcome of an Ofsted inspection of Children’s Services, and the progress of regeneration schemes in the borough.

Council Finances

Councillor Ammar Naqvi, Cabinet Member for Financial Sustainability and Reducing Poverty, presented a report on the council's finances, highlighting a forecast overspend of £20 million, which he described as a serious situation. The report included details of the measures that the council was taking to address this, including a recovery plan to reduce spending and weekly control panel meetings to scrutinise all expenditure.

It is... a serious concern, and we've already undertaken a series of activities and measures to intervene to ensure that this particular situation doesn't end up being our end-of-year position.

Councillor Barry Rawlings, Leader of the Council, highlighted the impact that rising interest rates were having on the council's ability to borrow money to fund capital projects. He also criticised the previous Conservative administration for their use of internal borrowing to fund projects, which he said had made it more difficult for the Labour administration to respond to the current financial challenges.

Councillor Ross Houston, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Homes and Regeneration, outlined the challenges faced by the council in providing temporary accommodation for homeless families. He highlighted the unprecedented change in circumstances that had led to a significant increase in demand for temporary accommodation, as well as a rise in the cost of providing it. He said that the council was working to radically review its capital programme to identify ways to reduce spending.

The council’s financial situation is likely to be a recurring theme in future emails, as the council seeks to balance its budget.

Other Items

The Cabinet also discussed a number of other issues.

Councillor Pauline Coakley-Webb, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families, presented a report on the outcome of an Ofsted inspection of the Children and Families service. The inspection found that the service was Good in all areas and Outstanding for the experiences and progress of children in care.

Councillor Rawlings presented the first quarter report on Our Plan for Barnet, which is the council’s Corporate Plan for 2023-26. The report highlighted progress on a range of initiatives, including work to tackle inequality and reduce poverty, the journey to net zero, and resident participation.

Councillor Rawlings also presented a report on the council’s Adult Residents' Perception Survey, which found generally positive results, especially when compared with regional and national trends. The survey found that the council’s reputation with residents had improved, with residents saying that they now trusted the council more.

The Cabinet also approved a report on Hampstead Garden Suburb Library. The library is run on the council’s behalf by the Garden Suburb Community Library Limited, a charitable group. The group is unable to pay a market rent and the council was seeking approval to continue to sublet the library to the group for a peppercorn rent. The cabinet was satisfied that this constituted best value, and approved the report.

Councillor Alan Schneiderman, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change, presented a report on the council’s sustainability programme. He highlighted some of the progress that the council had made, including the installation of electric vehicle charging points and the retrofitting of council properties. He also explained that the council was working to produce a climate budget, which would identify measures within the existing budget that would contribute to reducing carbon emissions.

Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Wednesday 18 September 2024

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee is one of the most important committees of the council. It is responsible for scrutinising the decisions made by the Cabinet. The Committee can call in any decision made by the Cabinet for further scrutiny, and can make recommendations to the Cabinet on how services can be improved.

The Committee met this week to consider a number of reports, including the Youth Homelessness Task and Finish Group report, the Council Tax Support Scheme and the Chief Finance Officer’s report.

Youth Homelessness Task and Finish Group

The Committee agreed to pass the Youth Homelessness Task and Finish Group Report to the Cabinet with the request that the recommendations be converted into directions. The report was produced by a Task and Finish Group.

Task and Finish Groups are temporary groups that are set up by a council to consider a specific issue. They are made up of councillors and often include members of the public or representatives from other organisations. The groups meet for a set period of time and then produce a report with recommendations. The recommendations are then considered by the council or by one of its committees.

The report highlighted the growing problem of youth homelessness in the borough and made a number of recommendations for how the council could improve its response. These included better co-ordination between services, improved access to support for young people who are at risk of homelessness, and the provision of more suitable accommodation for young people. The Committee’s decision to request that the recommendations be converted into directions suggests that they felt that the issue was a particularly urgent one.

Financial Reporting

The Committee also considered the Chief Finance Officer Report - 2024/25 Quarter 1 Financial Forecast and 2024/25 Budget Management. Councillor Ammar Naqvi, Cabinet Member for Financial Sustainability and Reducing Poverty, described the overspend as serious but highlighted the range of actions being implemented to balance the budget.

It is serious. What we are faced with potentially... What we are facing is a 20 million pound overspend at a time when our budget position is already at a suboptimal level.

Councillor Peter Zinkin acknowledged the seriousness of the overspend but questioned whether the scale of the problem was being adequately communicated to residents, highlighting that the underlying deficit was closer to £50 million. Councillor Arjun Mittra challenged Councillor Zinkin's suggestion that budget pressures were simply down to demographics, arguing that government policy and council spending decisions over many years had created the financial challenges.

The Committee requested that a simplified summary be included in future reports from the Chief Finance Officer and asked that consideration be given to the possibility of including in the financial reporting the fundraising and volunteering undertaken by the Voluntary and Community Sector.

Strategic Planning Committee - Monday 16 September 2024

The Strategic Planning Committee is responsible for making decisions on planning applications. The committee considers a wide range of applications, from small-scale extensions to major developments. In making their decisions, the committee must consider a range of factors, including the impact of the development on the local environment, the character of the area, and the needs of local residents.

The committee met this week to consider a number of applications, including:

Silk Park, Unit 4 Hyde Estate Road London NW9 6JX - 24/1746/S73 (West Hendon)

The committee considered an application by St George North London Ltd and Sainsbury’s Supermarkets Ltd to make amendments to planning permission granted in 2020 for the Silk Park development. The development is a mixed-use development comprising a new Sainsbury’s, commercial space, and 1309 new homes. The committee voted to grant planning permission for the changes, which include the addition of second staircases to some of the residential blocks to improve fire safety. The original application attracted a number of objections, mostly related to the height and density of the development and its impact on traffic levels. The report to attendees included an assessment of the impact on local transport and traffic levels.

This application highlights the council's responsibility to ensure that new developments are safe and sustainable, and that they meet the needs of local residents.

Safer Communities Partnership Board - Friday 20 September 2024

The Safer Communities Partnership Board is a multi-agency group that is responsible for developing and implementing the council's community safety strategy. The board is made up of representatives from a range of organisations, including the council, the police, the fire service, the NHS and the voluntary sector.

The board met this week to review the progress of the community safety strategy.

The meeting heard about the positive impact of the council’s work to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour, including the work of the Community Safety Team and the partnership work with the police to target specific crime hotspots. However, the meeting also heard that there had been an increase in some types of crime, including residential burglary, robbery, and knife crime.

...there was just under 1,900 incidents recorded by CCTV just in that three month period, so an extremely useful tool and having had conversations with police colleagues, I think they're finding it extremely useful as well.

The board also discussed the council's plans to improve safety in parks, which included proposals for a new park locking regime and the introduction of Barnet Safer Parks Standards to guide future investment in parks. These proposals are likely to be welcomed by residents, who have consistently raised concerns about safety in parks.

The board also received an update on the work of the partnership in relation to the Serious Violence Duty, which requires the council and its partners to work together to prevent serious violence. The board heard about a number of initiatives that were underway to tackle knife crime and other forms of serious violence, including the detached youth outreach project and the Barnet Victim Care Hub.

The board also heard about the increase in antisemitism in the borough, with over a third of all antisemitic offences in London now taking place in Barnet. The board were told that the partnership was working to tackle hate crime and that a communications campaign would be launched during Hate Crime Awareness Week in October.

We've seen a rise of over 200% in anti-Semitism in Barnet alone since the October conflict that began last year, and one third of all anti-Semitism across London happens in Barnet as well...

The meeting also heard about the success of Project ADDER in tackling drug crime.

Health & Wellbeing Board - Thursday 19 September 2024

The Health & Wellbeing Board is responsible for developing and implementing the council’s joint health and wellbeing strategy. The board is made up of representatives from the council, the NHS, and other organisations.

The board met this week to review the progress of the strategy, receiving an update from Janet Djomba, Director of Public Health, on communicable diseases and discussing the development of the new Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy for 2025-30.

I think what we saw over COVID was that a lot of patients became deconditioned, and that deconditioning is now having long-term conditions impact.

There was also a discussion about the need for better access to pharmacies, and the importance of routine eye and hearing tests for children.

The board were told that an interactive map of pharmacy provision in Barnet had been published on the council’s website, and that the map and data were updated quarterly. The board also agreed to the suggested process for reviewing applications for changes in pharmacy provision, as set out in Appendix B of the report HWBB - pharmaceutical needs assessment update - for Sept 2024 HWBB_cleared

And therefore, are they taken? How do we make sure collectively we're getting that message out to all families? Both ends of the age range. We're looking at ensuring that people understand what is available. The benefits of that and the risks if they don't.

I think there's a missing link to say is that you can't predict when you're going to fall ill. And people generally fall ill on the weekend when things are shut. And so in the future, how can the farmers think about providing that provision on Saturday?

The meeting also heard about the successful launch of a fourth women’s refuge in the borough, run by the Iranian and Kurdish Women's Rights Organisation.

This week in Barnet:

• The North Area Committee approved funding for new facilities in Stonyfield Park, Mill Hill Town Square and the Underhill Children’s Centre.
• The Children and Education Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee agreed recommendations on Elective Home Education, and discussed the impact of VAT on independent schools and the findings of the Young Residents Perception Survey.
• The Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to discuss proposed mergers between NHS Trusts in the borough and to note the Committee’s work programme.

North Area Committee - Wednesday 11 September 2024

The North Area Committee met this week to consider a number of applications for Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) funding. You may recall that the NCIL is a levy that can be charged by local authorities on new developments in their area. The funds raised by the levy are then used to fund infrastructure projects that support the new development.

Area Committees are responsible for allocating NCIL funds to projects within their area. As we have seen in previous emails, the North Area Committee has previously allocated funding to a wide range of projects, including the provision of new play equipment, the refurbishment of community centres and the installation of new street lighting.

This week the committee agreed to award funding to four projects:

• A new outdoor gym in Stonyfield Park
• The installation of a permanent Christmas tree and new seating in Mill Hill Town Square
• The refurbishment of toilets at the Underhill Children's Centre
• A new toddler’s play area and improved toilet facilities in Mill Hill Park (deferred)

The application for funding for a new toddler's play area and improved toilet facilities in Mill Hill Park was deferred to the next funding cycle, which will begin in April 2025. This decision was made after Councillor Weiser questioned why the application for the toddler's play area had been submitted just six months after the Committee had approved a separate application for funding to improve the older children's play area in the same park. As in previous meetings, for example the meeting of the Planning Committee on 4 September 2024, the committee was concerned to ensure that funding was distributed fairly across the borough.

There was a lively debate about the application for funding to install a permanent Christmas tree in Mill Hill Town Square. The Chair was concerned that the existing risk assessment for the Square would need to be updated to include the tree, but Councillor Duschinsky, who submitted the application, explained that the trees would be looked after by a group of local residents, and that Iceland Foods had agreed to cover the cost of lighting the tree each year.

The meeting also highlighted the important role that Friends groups play in maintaining and improving parks and green spaces in the borough. The application for funding for a new outdoor gym in Stonyfield Park was submitted by the Friends of Stonyfield Park. In his speech to the committee, Tony Sabini, Chair of the Friends group, explained that the group is a relatively new one, and that this was the first time they had applied for NCIL funding.

Children and Education Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Thursday 12 September 2024

The Children and Education Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee is a committee of the council that scrutinises the work of the council's Children's Services department. It is responsible for holding the department to account for its performance and for making recommendations to the Cabinet on how services can be improved.

The committee met this week to consider a range of issues, including:

• The impact of the planned removal of the VAT exemption for independent schools
• The findings of the Barnet Young Residents Perception Survey 2023/24
• The performance of Barnet's family services
• The findings of the Elective Home Education Task and Finish group

There was a detailed discussion about the potential impact of the removal of the VAT exemption for independent schools. The exemption is due to be removed in January 2025, and there are concerns that this could lead to an increase in the cost of independent school fees. This could force some parents to move their children to state schools, which could put pressure on the council to provide additional school places.

Neil Marlow, the Director of Education, explained that there is sufficient capacity in non-faith state schools to accommodate any influx of pupils from non-faith independent schools, but that there could be significant problems in the Jewish school sector. There are 17 Jewish independent schools in Barnet, and many of these schools cater for pupils from the strictly Orthodox or Haredi Orthodox communities. Mr Marlow explained that these families may find that none of the existing state schools meet their religious requirements. He suggested that the Sub-Committee may wish to lobby the Department for Education (DfE) to exempt independent faith schools from the planned removal of the VAT exemption. The committee agreed to send a letter to ministers setting out the council’s concerns.

The committee also received a presentation on the findings of the Barnet Young Residents Perception Survey 2023/24. The survey was conducted between December 2023 and March 2024, and asked young people aged 11 to 18 about their experiences of living in the borough. The results of the survey were generally positive, with young people expressing high levels of satisfaction with the borough as a place to live and with the council’s services. However, there were some concerns about knife crime, gangs, the safety of girls and hate crime. The committee asked officers to share the results of the survey with schools in the Burnt Oak, Colindale and Hendon wards, where young people reported feeling particularly unsafe.

The committee also considered a report on the performance of Barnet’s Family Services. The report noted that the service had recently been inspected by Ofsted, and that the inspectors had been impressed with the quality of the service. The inspectors found that the service was well-led and that staff were committed to providing high-quality support to children and families. The committee agreed to note the recommendations in the report.

Finally, the committee considered the findings of the Elective Home Education Task and Finish group. The group was set up in response to an increase in the number of children being educated at home in Barnet. The group made seven recommendations, which included creating a register of families who are electively home educating their children, working with schools to improve their understanding of EHE, and providing more support to families who are electively home educating their children. There was some debate about the cost of implementing the group’s recommendations, particularly the recommendation to provide funding for EHE children to take exams. The committee agreed to send the report and its recommendations to the Cabinet for consideration.

Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Monday 09 September 2024

The Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to meet this week to consider a number of important health issues affecting residents of Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey and Islington. However, no minutes or video of the meeting has been made available.

This was a Joint Committee meeting. Joint Committees are committees that are made up of councillors from two or more local authorities. They are often set up to oversee services that are provided jointly by the authorities. In this case, the Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee has a responsibility to scrutinise the work of the North Central London Integrated Care Board (ICB).

The committee was scheduled to receive a report on a proposal to merge the North Middlesex University Hospital NHS Trust with the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust. The full business case for the merger has already been approved by both Trusts and submitted to NHS England, and the Trusts are hoping that the merger will take place on 1 January 2025. If it goes ahead, this will be the second recent merger between NHS Trusts in Barnet. You may recall that the Barnet, Enfield & Haringey Mental Health NHS Trust and the Camden & Islington NHS Foundation Trust are due to merge on 1 October 2024 to form the North London Mental Health Partnership.

The committee was also scheduled to receive an update on the North Central London Estates and Infrastructure Strategy 2024. This strategy sets out the ICB’s plans for the development of healthcare estates and infrastructure in the five boroughs.

Finally, the committee was scheduled to note its work programme for 2024-25. The work programme is a list of topics that a committee has agreed to discuss during the year. It helps the committee to plan its work and make sure that it is considering the most important issues. The work programme for this year includes items on health inequalities, smoking cessation and vaping, and the strategic role of GP Federations.

This week in Barnet:

• The Adults and Health Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee discussed the performance of adult social care services.
• The Planning Committee considered nine planning applications including two small childrens care homes, an 18-hole golf course and an extension to the Wellington Outpatient Centre on Golders Green Road.

Adults and Health Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Thursday 05 September 2024

The Adults and Health Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee met to receive a presentation on the Children’s Oral Health Action Plan for Barnet, and noted the three draft Quality Accounts. In addition, they considered reports on NHS cancer screening programmes, Adult Social Care performance, and received the minutes of a meeting of the North Central London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

Planning Committee (New) - Wednesday 04 September 2024

This meeting of the Planning Committee was scheduled to consider 10 planning applications from across the borough.

Two of the applications related to children's homes. The first was an application to change the use of 49 St James Avenue, originally submitted on 12 April 2024, to a children’s home for up to three children aged between 11 and 14 years old. The second was an application to change the use of Antian House, 4 Rundell Crescent, to a children’s care home, originally submitted on 19 January 2024. This home would also accommodate no more than 3 children.

Both applications attracted a significant number of objections from local people. In the case of 49 St James Avenue, the report to attendees stated that 150 objections had been received from local people, compared to only one letter of support. For Antian House, 34 objections were received.

The concerns raised about both applications were similar to those raised in previous emails about applications for children's homes, such as the application for 64 Church Road discussed in my email on 2024-07-14. Residents are often concerned about the impact of these homes on crime and anti-social behaviour, traffic levels, and property prices. However, as in the case of 64 Church Road, the council's highways and environmental health departments raised no objections to either of the applications.

It is important to note that there is a significant need for more children’s homes in Barnet. The report to attendees for the 49 St James Avenue application included a statement from the applicant, Brigitte Jordaan, stating:

“As of May 2024, Barnet have 324 looked after children, of which we currently have 39 children placed in external residential placements out of borough and 102 external foster placements out of borough…the property's proximity to public transport and local amenities, such as high streets, ensure that children can remain connected to the community and have access to essential resources without feeling isolated.”

The report prepared for the Antian House application also included a statement from the applicant referring to the need for more placements for looked after children.

The applications highlight the challenges faced by local authorities in balancing the need for more children's homes with the concerns of local residents.

The committee was also scheduled to consider a variation on an application to build an 18-hole golf course on Land West of Edgwarebury Farm. The application sought to alter levels at four of the holes, and included a request to alter the design of a pond, adding streams to the layout, and shortening the 18th hole.

This application has also attracted objections from local people. According to the report to attendees, these objections relate to a loss of green belt land and the impact of the development on traffic. The report states that 14 objections have been received from local people.

You may recall that the protection of the green belt is a key policy objective in the council's Local Plan.¹

The other applications scheduled to be considered by the committee related to a range of issues, including the redevelopment of Roman House, 296 Golders Green Road, to provide a new health centre and the conversion of 138 High Road to three self-contained flats.

The Employment Sub-Committee was scheduled to meet on Friday 30 August to discuss the appointment of a new Executive Director of Growth, and the minutes of the previous meeting of the sub-committee.

Employment Sub-Committee - Friday 30 August 2024

The Employment Sub-Committee was scheduled to meet on Friday 30 August 2024 to consider two items.

Appointment of the Executive Director of Growth

This was scheduled to be an exempt item, so the report pack is redacted. However, the publicly available agenda for the meeting suggests that the sub-committee were scheduled to consider a report on the appointment of a new Executive Director of Growth. The report was to be provided by the Interim Chief Executive, Cath Shaw.

The report requested that the committee appoint one of the candidates to the vacant position. The report explains that

The Sub-Committee are requested to consider the candidate information circulated in the exempt appendices and provided they are content that at least one of the candidates meets the criteria, to make an appointment to the vacant post.

The post of Executive Director Growth is a new role. According to the agenda for the meeting on 21 May 2024 at which the creation of the role was approved, the postholder would be responsible for Leading the regeneration, planning and development functions for the Council including planning policy; strategic planning and infrastructure; development management; regeneration and economic development; property and land management and housing strategy.

This continues a pattern observed in previous emails of senior management restructuring within Barnet Council. For example, in a previous email I reported on the council's decision to appoint a new Director of Public Health.

The report explains that the role was created following a decision of the council on 21 May 2024, to restructure the most senior management roles in the council. In the report this is described as

consequential changes to the senior management structure of the Council.

Minutes of the previous meeting

The sub-committee were also scheduled to approve the minutes of their previous meeting, which was held on 18 July 2024. This is a routine item that appears on the agenda of most council committees.

The Pension Fund Committee was scheduled to meet on Monday 29 July to discuss the performance of the Barnet Pension Fund, routine administration and a range of reports from advisors.

Pension Fund Committee - Monday 29 July 2024

The agenda for this meeting of the Pension Fund Committee included topics related to the performance of the investments held by the Barnet Pension Fund, routine administration and updates on the work of advisors. There was also a report on the previous year’s work by the Local Pension Board. Some of the topics were scheduled to be discussed in private session, and some of the documents that support the meeting agenda are redacted, so a full summary cannot be given.

Responsible Investment

A report by David Spreckley, Head of Pensions and Treasury at Barnet Council provided an update on the Fund’s plans for “Responsible Investment.”¹ The report focused on Nature-Based Solutions, in particular exploring an allocation towards the Nature-Based Solutions fund currently being developed by London CIV.²

Officers were scheduled to propose an allocation of 5% of the Fund's resources towards Nature-Based Capital, to be sourced from the existing allocation to Private Debt. However, the report notes that:

“This allocation will be reassessed once the form of the London CIV Fund has more clarity.”

The report also describes the work already completed to reduce the carbon footprint of the Fund’s core investments in equities, bonds and property.

Investment Strategy

A report on investment strategy covered the transactions undertaken by the Fund in the 4 months from March 2024 to June 2024. It also included proposals to increase the cash management limits for the Pemberton Trade Finance Fund and the Allianz Trade Finance Fund, to £50 million and £40 million respectively.

The report scheduled for discussion also included proposals to reallocate 6.5% of the Fund’s resources from the LGIM Future Worlds Fund to the LCIV PEPPA Fund, and proposals to transfer the LGIM RAFI Fund to the LGIM RAFI CTI fund. Both of these proposals were scheduled to be contingent on the production of product suitability and assurance notes by Hymans Robertson.³

Administration Performance Report and Update On Other Administration And Legislative Matters

The report pack included an update on the performance of the administrators, West Yorkshire Pension Fund.⁴ The update was scheduled to note that in May, West Yorkshire Pension Fund had processed 965 cases with 90.06% of cases being completed within the agreed service level agreements.

The report also contained information on:

• Data improvement.
• Annual Benefit Statements.
• The Pensions Dashboard programme.
• Finance updates.
• The Pensions Fund Engagement Strategy.
• The Pensions Regulator's new General Code of Practice.

Risk Management Review

This item included updates to the Pension Administration Risk Register and the Non-Administration Risk Register.

These registers record the perceived risks and levels of risk to the Barnet Pension Fund.

For example, one entry in the Pension Administration Risk Register states:

ADM18 - Failure to produce compliant annual report and accounts within deadline - “The Accounts and Audit Regulations 2015(2022 amendment) require audited accounts to be published on the 30th September after the year end. The risk of the Pension Fund Accounts not being published is that the Council Accounts will not be complete.”

The update to the Pension Administration Risk Register was scheduled to note that the risk score of this entry had been increased to 6.

The Non-Administration Risk Register update was scheduled to note that a new risk, “ESG Opportunity/Risk,” was to be added to the register.

Local Pension Board – Annual Report

This report contained an update on the work of the Local Pension Board⁵ during 2023-24.

The report contained details of the training that Board members had completed during the year, including:

• The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA)⁶ Annual Local Pension Board Training – Autumn 2023.
• The Pensions Regulator – Knowledge and Understanding Duty Toolkit, Learning Resources and Refresh.
• Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) Governance Conference Spring 2024 – LPB and SAB Update.
• LGPS Online Learning Academy – Spring 2024 LPB.

External Audit and Accounts Update

This report provided an update on the outstanding audit of the 2020/21 Pension Fund accounts and the plan for the 2021/22, 2022/23, and 2023/24 audits. The report notes that:

“BDO are the Pension Fund’s appointed external auditors for the 2020/21 and 2021/22 financial years. [...] Grant Thornton have now been appointed as external auditors and are to complete the 2023/24 audit.”

The report contains a proposed timetable for the completion of the outstanding audits.

Admissions, Cessations and Bond Status Update

This report provided an update on:

• Admission agreements.⁷
• Cessation valuations.⁸
• Bonds and bond renewals.

The report included a recommendation that the committee approve the admission of Olive Dining (Martin School) into the Barnet Pension Fund.

Pension Fund Investment Performance Report

This report provided an update on the performance of the Fund’s investments to 31 March 2024 with an updated estimated valuation to 30 June 2024.

It noted that the value of the Fund increased by an estimated £59.1 million between February and June 2024. This represents an increase of 3.7%. The report contains details of the best and worst performing investments over the period.

The report also included:

• Analysis of manager ratings.
• Details of strategic allocations.

Knowledge and Understanding

This report summarised the training completed by members of the Pension Fund Committee and the Local Pension Board during 2023-24.

The report pack includes an appendix showing the “mandatory and primary training opportunities” available to the members of the two committees. This appendix includes:

• The Pensions Regulator Trustee toolkit.
• Hymans’ training portal (LOLA).
• CIPFA training.
• Sustainability training.
• Ad hoc training sessions.

Update on Pooling and Efficiencies Letter

This report provided an update on pooling and the Fund’s response to a letter from Simon Hoare, the then Minister for Local Government, about efficiencies in Local Government Pension Schemes.

The report highlights the key message being made by the council to the government:

“[...] convergence through the London CIV is likely to lead to better outcomes than merging (which is complex and could also lead to a potential loss of local control, which is crucial to local decision making and risk management).”

The Health & Wellbeing Board was due to meet on Thursday 25 July to discuss how the council supports children and young people, communicable diseases, and the Barnet Food Plan. Also on Thursday 25 July, the Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to receive updates on the ‘Start Well’ programme and on GP and Dental Services in North Central London. The Governance, Audit, Risk Management and Standards Committee (GARMS) met on Tuesday 23 July to discuss a number of topics related to the financial management of the council. The North Area Committee met on Thursday 25 July to consider applications for Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy Funding and discuss road safety schemes. The Employment Sub-Committee meeting scheduled for Monday 22 July was postponed. The Welsh Harp Joint Consultative Committee met on Monday 22 July to discuss how Barnet and Brent Councils have been managing the reservoir. The Planning Committee (New) considered an application for a Tree Preservation Order and several planning applications at their meeting on Wednesday 24 July.

Health & Wellbeing Board - Thursday 25 July 2024

The agenda for the Health & Wellbeing Board meeting on Thursday 25 July included a wide range of topics related to the health and wellbeing of Barnet’s residents.

A significant proportion of the meeting was scheduled to be given over to presentations about the work the council is doing to improve the lives of children and young people in the borough. This included presentations on the support available for young carers and the council’s work with Barnet Carers to identify and support this group. The meeting was also scheduled to hear an update on the council’s Early Help Strategy and the progress that is being made in implementing it. The report pack includes a summary of how the three Early Help hubs in the borough are working to deliver services and mentions the National Change Programme Partnership (CPP) Pilots scheme that the council is involved in. This national scheme, being run by the Department for Education (DfE), aims to improve support for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

The meeting was also due to discuss the council’s work on childhood obesity and to receive an update from Whittington Health, which is now responsible for delivering the Healthy Child Programme in Barnet. The transfer of responsibility to Whittington Health follows a critical CQC inspection of the previous provider.

The second major topic scheduled for discussion was the Barnet Food Plan, which sets out the council’s strategy to ensure that all residents have access to healthy and sustainable food. The report pack focused on food insecurity, reporting that this is an increasing problem in Barnet and highlighting data from the Trussell Trust, a charity that supports a network of food banks in the UK. The report also discussed the variety of schemes that the council is involved in to address the problem, including the Healthy Start scheme, the Holiday Activity Fund and the Make Every Contact Count (MECC) programme.

The meeting was also scheduled to discuss a wide range of other actions included in the Barnet Food Plan, such as community food growing projects, the council’s procurement policies, and the role of the Barnet Food Partnership, a multi-agency group that works to improve the food system in Barnet.

The committee were also scheduled to receive a verbal update on communicable diseases in the borough and to answer two questions that had been submitted by members of the public in advance of the meeting.

Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Thursday 25 July 2024

This meeting of the Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to discuss a range of important health issues affecting residents of Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey and Islington. The committee has a responsibility to scrutinise the work of the North Central London Integrated Care Board (ICB)¹ and to hold it to account for its performance.

One of the most significant items on the agenda was an update on the 'Start Well' programme. You may recall that this programme featured heavily in my previous email, when it was discussed by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 18 July. 'Start Well' is a programme to improve maternity, neonatal and paediatric services across the five boroughs. The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the public consultation that was held between December 2023 and March 2024 about plans to consolidate these services, and to consider an interim evaluation report. The report pack noted that NHS England had given assurance on the proposals and that they were seeking formal feedback from the JHOSC by 16 August 2024, after which a decision making business case would be prepared for consideration by commissioners.

The committee was also scheduled to discuss GP access, in particular the findings of the national GP Patient Survey, which suggests that many patients are unhappy about the current state of GP services. The report pack refers to the national Delivery Plan for Recovering Primary Care Access which was published in May 2023. This two-year plan sets out how the government intends to improve GP services and includes several proposals that will affect the way that patients access care in the future. It also summarises North Central London ICB’s response to the delivery plan and highlights some of the challenges facing general practice, including rising demand and difficulties recruiting and retaining GPs.

The final substantive topic on the agenda was dental services. The committee was due to hear about the ICB’s plans to improve access to dental care and the progress that has already been made, including the work that the ICB has been doing to improve access to dental care for vulnerable groups such as people experiencing homelessness. The report also referred to the Community Dental Service provided by Whittington Health and the important role it plays in providing dental care in the borough.

The report pack also included a provisional work programme for the committee for 2024-2025, listing a range of possible future agenda items.

Governance, Audit, Risk Management and Standards Committee (GARMS) - Tuesday 23 July 2024

Barnet Council's Governance, Audit, Risk Management and Standards Committee (GARMS) met this week to consider a number of reports relating to the financial management of the council.

The meeting received an update on the council's progress in implementing its new Oracle Cloud IT system, which, you may recall, went live in April 2024. You may also recall that this project was discussed at length by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 18 July. The report to this meeting noted that there had been challenges in two key areas: user adoption and the resolution of various technical issues.

The committee also considered several reports about the council's finances. The Treasury Management Outturn report detailed the council's borrowing and investment activity during the last financial year and highlighted the impact that rising interest rates are having on the council’s finances. It is important to note that councils, unlike central government, cannot borrow money to fund day-to-day spending. They must balance their budgets each year. Councils can borrow money to fund capital projects, such as building new schools or roads. They can also use reserves and income from other sources, such as fees and charges, to fund capital projects.

Councils in England are permitted to increase council tax by a maximum of 2.99% without holding a referendum. Any increase above this level must be approved by a local referendum.

The report also noted that the council is increasingly reliant on using its reserves to fund capital projects, which is not considered to be financially sustainable in the long-term. This echoes a pattern of financial concerns raised in previous council meetings, suggesting a need for the council to explore alternative revenue-generating avenues or re-evaluate its spending priorities.

The committee also considered a report from the council’s external auditors, Grant Thornton, which is responsible for auditing the council's accounts. The report summarised Grant Thornton’s progress and included a sector update that described some of the issues facing local authority auditors nationally.

North Area Committee - Thursday 25 July 2024

The North Area Committee considered applications to the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) funding budget for three projects: floodlights for Barnet Elizabethans Rugby Football Club, new changing rooms for Hadley FC and the desilting of the lake at Darlands Nature Reserve.

The NCIL is a charge that can be levied by local authorities on new developments in their area, and is used to fund infrastructure projects that will support the development. It is important to note that the committee could only allocate funding to projects in its area. The report pack does not say which, if any, of the applications were successful.

The committee also received an update on the Road Safety & Parking Fund budget for 2024/25. The report included details of the schemes that had already been allocated funding.

Welsh Harp Joint Consultative Committee - Monday 22 July 2024

The Welsh Harp Joint Consultative Committee is a joint committee of Barnet and Brent Councils that is responsible for overseeing the management of the Welsh Harp reservoir.

The committee received a report about Barnet Council's activities at the reservoir between April and June 2024.

This is an example of a footnote. I have added it because the Welsh Harp Joint Consultative Committee is a joint committee of two local authorities.

The most significant item in the report was an update on the West Hendon Playing Fields Masterplan. The report noted that designs were still being developed following the first round of public engagement, which took place in December 2023. The report said that another round of engagement would take place during Summer 2024. The report also provided an update on the work Barnet Council were doing to manage the reservoir's Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)², including their response to a report of damage being caused by a nearby property. It also noted that the council were exploring options to tackle antisocial behaviour at the site's bird hide.

The committee also received a report about Brent Council’s activities at the reservoir. The most significant item in this report was an update on the future of the Welsh Harp Environmental Education Centre. The report said that Brent Council was working with Thames21 and McBains to develop a business case for a new building on the site and that there would be a public consultation about the plans once more details had been finalised.

The committee were scheduled to receive a verbal update from the Canal and River Trust about their work at the reservoir. The agenda does not provide any more information about what was scheduled to be discussed.

Planning Committee (New) - Wednesday 24 July 2024

This meeting of the Planning Committee (New) considered a request to confirm a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) for a large oak tree located at 103 Oakwood Road in the Hampstead Garden Suburb Conservation Area. You may recall that TPOs were also discussed at the meeting on 25 June. The report pack noted that this oak tree is one of the last remaining trees in the Hampstead Garden Suburb that pre-dates the development of the Suburb, and that this tree influenced the design of the Suburb.

The retention of trees such as this oak was an integral part of the design ethos during the development of the Garden Suburb.

The report detailed how the tree has been implicated in subsidence damage to surrounding properties and included an assessment by the Council’s structural engineers.

The officer's recommendation in the report pack was to confirm the Tree Preservation Order.

“Due to the lack of conclusive evidence that implicates the tree in the reported damage it is recommended that the order is made so the mandatory information is obtained and assessed."

The committee also considered planning applications at eight different locations.

The most contentious of these was a reserved matters application relating to the landscaping of Land at 49 and 51 Beresford Avenue in the Brunswick Park Ward. This application follows the allowance of an appeal to the Planning Inspectorate (APP/N5090/W/23/3321582) following the refusal by the council of a previous outline planning application for the demolition of part of no. 51 Beresford Avenue and the erection of 6 semi-detached dwellings (22/6069/OUT).

A significant number of objections were received from local residents about this application, many of them raising concerns about road safety and the impact of the development on the character of the area. Despite these objections, the officer recommendation was to approve the application subject to a number of conditions. It is not clear from the report pack whether this is the same scheme that was refused by the council.

The committee also considered a planning application (22/6038/FUL) for the construction of a new internal access road, junction and car parking facilities at Mill Hill Cemetery in Mill Hill. A previous application (14/08161/FUL) for a similar scheme was refused by the council in 2014, but was subsequently allowed on appeal (APP/N5090/W/16/3145010). That scheme was never implemented and has now lapsed. The current application attracted a significant number of objections from local residents, but the officer’s recommendation was to approve the application subject to conditions.

The meeting also discussed several other applications relating to a variety of issues, including the need for affordable housing, the impact of development on trees and ecology, noise and disturbance to neighbours and the loss of community facilities.

Barnet Council held six meetings in the last week. Here’s a summary of what happened:

Strategic Planning Committee - Wednesday 17 July 2024

The Strategic Planning Committee approved an application for the demolition of the existing Volvo car showroom and the construction of 139 new homes and a new community centre on the site in Colindale. The development, which will reach a maximum height of nine storeys, has faced some opposition from local residents concerned about potential traffic congestion and the building's scale in relation to the surrounding area.

To mitigate traffic concerns, a Section 106 Agreement will see the developer contribute £60,000 towards a review of parking controls in the area. Furthermore, new residents will be prohibited from applying for parking permits, and the development will include two car club spaces.

The committee also addressed the aesthetic impact of the building's height, with the Council's Urban Design Officer stating that the development will create a distinct piece of architecture on the A5.

Finally, to align with the Mayor of London's net-zero carbon policy, the developer will contribute £38,190 to the Council's carbon offset fund.

The committee also considered the proposed redevelopment of Intec House in High Barnet, a contentious issue previously discussed in the Planning Committee A meeting on 8 April 2024.

Because the applicant, Moxon One Limited, had already appealed to the Planning Inspectorate due to non-determination, the committee was unable to make a formal decision. Instead, their role was to provide an opinion to the Planning Inspectorate.

The lack of affordable housing in the scheme was a significant point of contention, with Councillor Eva Greenspan echoing her previous concerns about the developer's proposed £75,000 off-site contribution, which she deems insufficient. In contrast, Councillor Richard Cornelius advocated for the development, citing the site's current vacant state and the potential for new homes and jobs in the borough.

Ultimately, the committee's recommendation to the Planning Inspectorate was split, highlighting the complexities of balancing development needs with community priorities.

Cabinet - Tuesday 16 July 2024

The Cabinet meeting covered a diverse array of topics, reflecting the multifaceted nature of local governance.

Finances

The council's financial status was a key point of discussion. The 2023/24 revenue budget saw an overspend of £22.181m, largely attributed to pressures within Adult Social Care, increasing temporary accommodation costs, and income shortfalls from services brought back in-house, such as Revenues and Benefits. Councillor Ammar Naqvi, in his CFO Financial Monitoring Outturn Report 202324, attributes these challenges to difficulties in staff recruitment and retention, alongside rising demand for services compounded by inflation.

Conversely, the capital programme outturn for 2023/24 was £58.786m lower than the approved budget, primarily due to project reprofiling aligned with anticipated delivery timelines.

The council also considered its business plan, particularly the budget-setting process for 2025/26, noting the government's requirement for councils to publish local productivity plans by 19 July 2024. These plans, as outlined in Councillor Naqvi's Business Planning 2025-2030 and 2024-25 Budget report, aim to identify productivity improvement opportunities and establish key implementation milestones.

Modern Slavery Strategy

Councillor Sara Conway presented a new Modern Slavery Strategy prompted by a Full Council motion passed unanimously in October 2023. This strategy signifies a proactive step towards combatting modern slavery within the borough.

Recognising the need to translate awareness into action, the strategy proposes a new referral pathway and dedicated training to equip residents and local businesses to identify and report suspected cases. This initiative emphasizes the council's commitment to safeguarding vulnerable individuals and promoting ethical practices within the community.

Arts Depot

Councillor Barry Rawlings brought forward a proposal to grant a new 50-year lease to Arts Depot, a prominent arts centre in the borough, at a peppercorn rent. This decision, as detailed in the Arts Depot - Cabinet Report -FINAL - 05 07 24, stems from Arts Depot's need to secure capital funding for essential refurbishment works.

With their current lease expiring in 2025, a long-term lease agreement is crucial for Arts Depot to demonstrate stability and secure the necessary funding. However, the peppercorn rent, significantly below the market value exceeding £2 million, necessitates approval from the Secretary of State.

This situation highlights the challenges faced by arts organisations in securing sustainable funding models and the council's role in supporting cultural institutions.

Planning Obligations SPD

The Cabinet reviewed the Draft Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) (Cabinet Report for draft Planning Obligations SPD July 2024), a document outlining the council's approach to securing contributions from developers to mitigate development impacts. Replacing a 2013 document, this updated SPD aligns with current national planning policy and the new Local Plan.

As Councillor Ross Houston's report highlights, this document aims to establish a clear and consistent framework for negotiating and securing planning obligations, focusing on aspects like affordable housing, employment creation, and carbon emissions reductions.

The SPD's significance lies in its role as a material consideration in determining planning applications, demonstrating the council's commitment to sustainable and community-focused development.

Landlord Services Complaints

The meeting acknowledged the Annual Landlord Services Complaints Performance and Service Improvement Report drafted by Councillor Houston. This report details the council's statutory obligation, in line with the Housing Ombudsman’s Complaint Handling Code, to manage landlord service complaints effectively.

The report analyses complaint reasons, highlighting areas for improvement. Notably, the council has implemented a new damp and mould policy and refined its repairs procedures to enhance communication and efficiency. This continuous improvement approach demonstrates a commitment to delivering quality housing services and addressing resident concerns.

Council Motions

Three motions, previously referred from Full Council, were presented for consideration:

1. Leaving Care Covenant (1. Motion to Cabinet - Leaving Care Covenant) urging the Cabinet to collaborate with partners in supporting care-experienced young people residing in the borough.
2. Increasing Barnet’s Biodiversity (2. Motion to Cabinet - Increasing Barnets Biodiversity) advocating for biodiversity enhancement and the implementation of a comprehensive biodiversity action plan.
3. Speedy Broadband for Barnet Residents (3. Motion to Cabinet - Speedy Broadband for Barnet Residents) emphasising the need to improve broadband provision for residents.

Recognising their potential, the council agreed to incorporate these motions into the business planning process, ensuring that they receive due consideration and contribute to the borough's future development.

New Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) Policy

The meeting reviewed a revised New Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy policy (Cabinet Report - NCIL). The NCIL, a charge levied on new developments, plays a vital role in funding essential infrastructure projects, such as parks and transport improvements.

The updated policy, as explained in Councillor Houston's report, clarifies and streamlines the application process for residents, community groups, and organisations seeking funding. This revised approach aims to make the NCIL more accessible and efficient, ensuring that infrastructure investments align with community needs.

Review of the Management Agreement with Barnet Homes

The Cabinet reviewed the Management Agreement with Barnet Homes, an Arms-Length Management Organisation (ALMO) responsible for managing over 14,000 council-owned housing properties (Cabinet report - Management Agreement Review).

This agreement, initially established in 2004 and subsequently extended, outlines Barnet Homes' responsibilities, including property management and maintenance, lettings, repairs, estate services, and addressing antisocial behaviour.

The report highlighted Barnet Homes' consistent achievement of key performance indicator targets across various areas, reflecting their effectiveness in managing the council's housing stock.

Our Plan for Barnet – Delivery and Outcomes Framework

Finally, the meeting received an update on 'Our Plan for Barnet,' the council's corporate plan, focusing on its delivery and outcomes framework (Our Plan for Barnet - Delivery and Outcomes Framework EOY 2023-24).

Presented by Councillor Barry Rawlings, the report details progress across various areas, highlighting accomplishments such as:

• Barnet achieving Borough of Sanctuary status.
• Progress towards becoming a net-zero borough by 2042.
• Delivery of new affordable homes, including those within the Brent Cross regeneration scheme.
• The opening of the council's first fully inclusive play area.
• Initiatives implemented to support residents during the cost of living crisis.

Alongside these successes, the report acknowledged strategic challenges, such as staff recruitment and retention and the rising cost of service provision, factors common to many local authorities.

Barnet Children's Partnership Board - Monday 15 July 2024

The Barnet Children's Partnership Board convened to discuss a number of issues related to the educational needs of children in the borough.

Educational Standards

Neil Marlow, Chief Executive of Barnet Education and Learning Service (BELS)¹, presented a report on standards in Barnet schools during the 2022-23 academic year.

The report identified several areas for improvement in the coming academic year:

• Attendance and exclusions, particularly at primary level.
• Transition of weaker readers from primary to secondary education.
• Vocational results at Key Stage 5.
• Support for low-attaining pupils across all key stages.

The report also highlighted the council's Schools Causing Concern policy.

SEND Strategy Consultation

Karen Flanagan, Director of SEND and Inclusion, presented the draft SEND & Alternative Provision (AP) Strategy 2024-27 which had been co-produced with schools, parents, and young people.

The strategy aims to ensure children and young people with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) receive timely and appropriate support. The legal framework for this is set out in the Children and Families Act 2014.²

Collaborate Project

Laurence Fox, Assistant Principal for Inclusion at St Mary's and St John’s CE School in Hendon, presented on the Collaborate Project.

Funded by John Lyon's Charity, the project provides enrichment activities and support for students in Years 8 and 9 in collaboration with Ark Against Knives, The Saracens Sports Foundation and Terapia.

Local Pension Board - Monday 15 July 2024

The Local Pension Board convened to discuss several crucial matters related to the London Borough of Barnet Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).

Pension Fund Risk Registers

The Board reviewed the updated Pension Fund Risk Registers, which had last been reviewed in June 2024.

Key changes included increasing the risk scores for:

• 'Failure to pay contributions' (ADM05).
• 'Failure of non-public sector employers' (ADM06).
• 'Negative media exposure and member experience' (ADM13).
• 'Signatory Lists' (INV01).
• 'Strategic Allocation' (INV04).
• 'Role of Model Portfolio' (ESG03).
• 'Record Keeping' (ACC01).
• 'Resourcing' (GEN02).

These changes reflect ongoing work to improve data quality, manage emerging risks, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the pension fund.

Data Improvement Plan and Historical Leavers

The board reviewed the progress of the data improvement plan being implemented by West Yorkshire Pension Fund (WYPF). Significant progress has been made since January 2024, with the number of data items needing review and correction decreasing from 28,500 to 6,650. Despite maintaining acceptable scores for common data, WYPF aims to achieve at least a 90% score for conditional data by year's end.

WYPF's efforts have also focused on addressing the backlog of historical leaver cases, successfully reducing the number from 1,950 to 224 since January 2024.

Decisions made by the Pension Fund Committee

The Board confirmed the Pension Fund Committee's adherence to the Local Government Pension Scheme Regulations 2013 in its decision-making processes.

Notably, the council had requested a review of pension contributions in November 2023 due to its financial position. Specialist legal advice deemed the existing contribution review policy inadequate, leading to its revision and amendment following a stakeholder consultation. Consequently, the Pension Fund Committee, acting on legal and actuarial advice, agreed to adjust contribution rates at its Extraordinary meeting on 1 February 2024.

Administration Performance Report and Update on Other Administration and Legislative Matters

WYPF continues to process a significant volume of cases, approximately 900 per month, and successfully met its Key Performance Indicator targets for 90% of those cases in May 2024.

Efforts to encourage member engagement with the WYPF My Pension online portal are ongoing, with varying registration rates across active members, deferred members, and pensioners.

The board was also updated on various administrative and legislative developments:

• Hymans Robertson's recent review of Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVC) providers.
• The issuance of 2023 Annual Benefit Statements and preparation for the 2024 statements.
• The upcoming launch of the next phase of WYPF's automated Defined Benefit process.
• WYPF's preparations to connect to the pensions dashboard ecosystem by the September 2025 deadline, following the signing of their contract with their chosen provider, Bravura.
• Contribution collection updates, including challenges faced with employers failing to make payments or providing inconsistent returns.
• The Pension Team's proactive engagement with members through face-to-face 'surgeries' at the council's Colindale offices and visits to schools.
• WYPF's website and My Pension online portal redesign initiatives.
• The implications of The Pensions Regulator (TPR)'s new General Code of Practice, effective 27 March 2024, and the Pension Team's ongoing assessment and training plans.

Knowledge and Understanding

The board emphasized the importance of maintaining up-to-date knowledge of the LGPS and encouraged members to utilize resources like the Hymans Robertson online training platform (“LGPS Online Learning Academy (LOLA)”).

Committee Work Programme

The board acknowledged the work programme for 2023 to 2024.

Other Meetings

The following meetings also took place over the past week:

• Employment Sub-Committee - Thursday 18 July 2024 - This meeting focused on the appointment of a Director of Public Health for Barnet Council.
• Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Thursday 18 July 2024 - No video or transcript was made available for this meeting.

This week's meetings underscore the breadth of issues tackled by Barnet Council, ranging from planning and development to education, social services, and financial management. By engaging with these updates, residents can gain a deeper understanding of local governance and contribute to a more informed and engaged citizenry.

This week, Barnet Council met twice to discuss a range of issues.

Overview and Scrutiny Committee

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on Wednesday 10 July 2024 discussed the future of two major projects: the proposed North London Business Park (NLBP) and the sale of land at Pinkham Way.

North London Business Park

Councillors raised concerns about the financial viability of the NLBP project in light of rising construction costs. Despite a report suggesting that the project may now only return £1.5m to the council over its lifetime – significantly less than the £6m profit anticipated in the original 2022 business case – the committee voted to proceed with the project, pending agreement on a revised financial model.

The committee also debated the use of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL)¹ receipts to support the project. While some councillors argued that the project's economic benefits warranted CIL funding, others expressed reservations, citing the council's policy to prioritise projects that lack alternative funding sources. Ultimately, the committee decided to formally assess the NLBP's eligibility for CIL funding.

Pinkham Way

The committee also discussed the controversial decision to sell land at Pinkham Way to logistics company Segro PLC, a decision that has been met with resistance from local residents concerned about the loss of green space.

Several committee members voiced their disappointment that the sale, which aligns with the site's employment designation in the council's Local Plan, was approved without their scrutiny. While officers defended the Cabinet's decision-making authority, concerns about the lack of affordable workspace provision in the development plans prompted the committee to request a detailed report exploring potential solutions. This echoes previous instances of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee requesting further information on controversial planning decisions, demonstrating the committee's role in holding the Cabinet to account and ensuring transparency in decision-making processes.

Council

The full Council met on Tuesday 09 July 2024 and made a number of decisions.

Highways Licence Fee Changes

The council voted to increase fees for skip, scaffold, and hoarding licences, despite opposition from the Federation of Master Builders who argued that the increases would place an undue burden on local businesses. The council justified the decision on the grounds that it would ensure developers contribute their fair share to highway maintenance costs. They also noted that the new fees would be more in line with those charged by neighbouring boroughs. This decision reflects the council's ongoing efforts to balance its budget while maintaining essential services, a recurring theme in council discussions.

Barnet's Capital Strategy

The council reviewed and noted the updated capital strategy for 2024-2025, a requirement of the Local Government Act 2003². Key changes to the capital programme include a £10 million budget increase for the redevelopment of Brent Cross Shopping Centre.³ The council also received the Annual Report of GARMS (General Fund Asset Review and Management Strategy) 2023-2024.

Other Business

The council also:

• Noted the Overview and Scrutiny Committee's Annual Report 2023-24 and Work Programme 2024-25.
• Approved updates to its contract procedure rules to improve clarity, consistency, and incorporate best practices.
• Approved a new Members’ Allowances Scheme for 2024-2025, as developed by the Independent Remuneration Panel.
• Received a deputation from Ark Franklin academy regarding plans for a new Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) and local residents' concerns about potential noise and light pollution. This example highlights the council's role in mediating between the needs of different stakeholders in the community.

Other Meetings

The following meetings also took place this week:

• Licensing and General Purposes Committee, Monday 08 July 2024: This meeting discussed a range of licensing-related matters. More details of this meeting are included below.
• Safer Communities Partnership Board, Friday 12 July 2024: This meeting covered the performance of the Safer Communities Partnership, crime statistics, and the Community Safety Plan. More details of this meeting are included below.
• Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Monday 08 July 2024: This meeting was postponed.

Licensing and General Purposes Committee - 08 July 2024

The Licensing and General Purposes Committee meeting on Monday 08 July 2024 focused on two main topics: the council's performance in managing licenses and the approval of a new street trading policy.

Street Trading Policy

The committee reviewed and subsequently approved a new Street Trading Policy for Barnet, following a public consultation that garnered 151 responses. The policy, which outlines permissible trading locations, goods, and the council's management process, introduces three categories of street trading consent: Consent Streets, Licensed Streets, and Market Streets.

• Consent Streets: Traders can operate freely without a specific council license, subject to compliance with the policy's general guidelines.
• Licensed Streets: Traders must obtain a license from the council, with the policy specifying the number of licenses available per location.
• Market Streets: The council grants a license to an external organization, such as a business improvement district, to manage street trading in a designated area.

The policy defines trading as any activity conducted on a street or open space for profit or in connection with a business, including activities like:

• Selling goods or services
• Advertising
• Fundraising

It also clarifies that certain activities, like licensed taxi services and house-to-house collections with appropriate permits, are not considered trading under the policy. The new policy allows the council to establish byelaws regulating street trading in specific locations, for example, by setting rules for trading hours or permitted goods in a particular area.

You can read the new policy here: Appendix 1 - Draft street trading Policy 2024 - 2029 post consultation

Licensing Service Performance

The committee also reviewed the council's performance in managing its licensing functions. While the report highlighted the council's overall efficiency in processing applications within statutory deadlines, it acknowledged a backlog in responding to licensing applications for major new developments within the 15-day target. The report attributed this delay to the increasing complexity of these applications, which often require additional information and review before a decision can be made.

You can read the full performance report here: Licensing Annual Performance Committee Report - for clearance

Safer Communities Partnership Board - 12 July 2024

The Safer Communities Partnership Board meeting on 12 July 2024 reviewed the partnership's performance, discussed crime statistics, and received updates on the Antisocial Behaviour Team and the Community Safety Plan.

Performance and Crime Statistics

The board reviewed the year-to-date performance of the Safer Communities Partnership, noting an encouraging 5% reduction in overall crime rates compared to the same period last year. This achievement was attributed to the collaborative efforts of the partnership and its proactive initiatives. However, concern was expressed regarding an increase in domestic burglaries within the Church End ward. Superintendent Caroline Berry of Colindale Police Station assured the board that additional resources were being deployed to address this issue, including increased patrols and a dedicated focus from the burglary squad.

Antisocial Behaviour Team Update

The board also received an update on the Antisocial Behaviour Team's activities, which revealed a significant increase in noise nuisance cases. To address this concern, Councillor Ann John, the lead member for Community Safety, announced plans for a public awareness campaign to educate residents about noise pollution and responsible behaviour. The council will also collaborate with landlords and managing agents to address noise complaints in private rented properties. This initiative demonstrates the council's commitment to responding to resident concerns and improving quality of life in the borough.

Community Safety Plan

The board reviewed progress on the Community Safety Plan, a comprehensive framework adopted in July 2023 that outlines how the council, police, and other partners work together to enhance community safety. Councillor Daniel Thomas, the Leader of the Council, emphasized the importance of collaborative partnerships in achieving the plan's objectives. The board acknowledged the successful implementation of various initiatives, including CCTV installation in a local park and the expansion of the Neighbourhood Watch scheme.

This week's meetings showcased the council's ongoing efforts to manage growth and development, address resident concerns, and ensure the efficient operation of essential services. By staying informed about council proceedings, residents can actively engage in local democracy and contribute to shaping their community's future.

This week, the Barnet Council held several meetings, with some notable decisions made by the Planning Committee (New). Here’s a detailed breakdown of what was discussed and decided:

Planning Committee (New) - Tuesday 25 June 2024

The Planning Committee (New) approved three significant planning applications and discussed several others. Here are the key decisions and discussions:

79-83 High Road London N2 8AD

The committee approved the demolition of the existing two-storey building at 79-83 High Road and the erection of a part three/part four-storey building to provide 8 self-contained flats. The new building will comprise 3 one-bedroom and 5 two-bedroom flats, with associated landscaping, refuse, and cycle storage.

Despite local residents' concerns about the loss of light and privacy, the committee found that the development was in line with the council's policies to optimise housing delivery in suitable locations.

5-7 Wykeham Road

The committee also approved the demolition of the existing semi-detached dwellings at 5-7 Wykeham Road and the construction of a part three/part four-storey building with 6 self-contained flats. This proposal had been reduced from an initial 7 flats, which also reduced the amount payable to the council in lieu of providing affordable housing.

The committee acknowledged both the support and concerns from residents but decided that the benefits of providing new homes outweighed any potential drawbacks.

2 Foxwood Close

A single-storey rear extension at 2 Foxwood Close was also approved with little discussion, as it was considered a small-scale development in keeping with the character of the surrounding area.

Belmont Nursery School

The committee considered a pre-application for converting a former nursery on East Barnet Road into 9 flats. Concerns were raised about the loss of a community facility and the lack of affordable housing. The committee provided feedback to the applicant for further consideration.

Tudor Court, 2 Crewys Road

A variation of a condition attached to a previously approved application for a three-storey building at Tudor Court, 2 Crewys Road was deferred. The applicant sought to amend the design of the balconies, but the committee decided to visit the site before making a decision.

Land to Rear of 18-20 Russell Gardens, London

A pre-application for a three-storey building with 6 flats at the rear of 18-20 Russell Gardens was discussed. Councillor Paul Convery and residents raised concerns about noise, disturbance, and parking problems. Feedback was provided to the applicant.

130 Hendon Lane London

The committee provided pre-application advice for demolishing an existing bungalow at 130 Hendon Lane and constructing a part three-storey, part four-storey building with 6 flats. Concerns included overlooking, privacy, traffic, and the impact on the area's character.

Other Meetings

• The Cabinet meeting scheduled for Monday 24 June 2024 was cancelled.
• The Strategic Planning Committee scheduled for Wednesday 26 June 2024 was postponed.
• The Governance, Audit, Risk Management and Standards Committee (GARMS) scheduled for Thursday 27 June 2024 was postponed.
• The Schools Forum held on Wednesday 26 June 2024 did not provide a video or transcript.

This week’s meetings highlight the council's ongoing efforts to balance development with community concerns, particularly around housing and local amenities. Keep an eye on future updates for more developments in Barnet.