The Planning Committee of Barnet Council met on Wednesday 15 July 2026. The committee considered three planning applications.

Queenswell Infant and Nursery School, Sweets Way, London N20 0NQ

The committee considered the erection of a single-story modular nursery building and a temporary SEND classroom block at Queenswell Infant and Nursery School. The SEND classroom block is proposed for a five-year period. The proposal aims to address an urgent need for specialist SEND places, with officers highlighting that 35 children with complex needs currently lack appropriate school places. The temporary loss of open space was deemed acceptable due to the significant public benefit of providing these much-needed educational facilities. Mitigation measures for noise disruption during extended working hours were discussed, with assurances that quieter plant and vehicles would be used. The committee voted to approve the development.

Hadley Wood Eruv, Hadley Common - Bakers Hill, Barnet EN5

The committee considered the establishment of an Eruv in Hadley Wood, involving the installation of poles, wires, and arches at three locations within the borough. The Eruv is a continuous boundary designated in accordance with Jewish Law, which allows observant Jews to carry items on the Sabbath. Objections were raised regarding the visual impact on the Monken Hadley Conservation Area and the potential narrowing of footpaths at Site 1. However, officers noted that the structures were designed to be discreet and mimic existing street furniture, and that the benefits to the Jewish community, particularly for those with mobility issues, outweighed the limited harm to the Green Belt and heritage assets. The application was also considered in light of the Equality Act 2010, with officers concluding that the positive impacts on disabled and elderly members of the Jewish community outweighed potential negative impacts on other groups. The committee voted to approve the establishment of the Eruv.

Unit 4 Hyde Estate Road London NW9 6JX

The committee considered significant amendments to the Hyde Estate Road development, which will lead to an increase of 227 homes, bringing the total to 1,564. Crucially, the proposals will significantly increase the provision of genuinely affordable Social Rent homes, from 114 to 286 units, while maintaining the overall affordable housing percentage at 34.5% by habitable room. The amendments also involve an increase in building heights in Phase 2, with Blocks B10 and B11 rising to 29 storeys. These changes were deemed acceptable due to a robust design-led approach, which included a redistribution of massing, improved permeability, and enhanced public realm. The development will also provide substantial increases in communal amenity space and children's play areas. The application was referred to the Mayor of London due to its strategic importance. The committee voted to approve the amendments.