The North Area Committee of Barnet Council met on Wednesday 11 September 2024. Decisions included the allocation of £64,303.57 for outdoor gym equipment in Stonyfield Park, the approval of £38,961.84 for enhancements to Mill Hill Town Square with conditions, and £44,000 for the refurbishment of toilets at the Underhill Children's Centre with conditions. An application for a toddler's play area in Mill Hill Park was deferred to the next municipal year (2025/26).

Stonyfield Park Outdoor Gym

The committee approved £64,303.57 for the installation of outdoor gym equipment in Stonyfield Park. Tony Sabini, head of the Friends of Stonyfield Park, presented the application, highlighting the park's role as a central green space for a diverse community and the potential for the gym to enhance health and well-being for all ages. Councillor Sarah Wardle, who represents the Edgwarebury ward, spoke in support, emphasising the grassroots nature of the application and the park's importance in connecting communities. The funding will cover playground installation works and includes a contingency and officer time for project management. The equipment chosen is primarily calisthenic, with fewer moving parts to reduce maintenance, and is designed to be inclusive, allowing individuals with reduced mobility to exercise alongside others. The maintenance of the equipment will be covered by existing revenue budgets.

Mill Hill Town Square Enhancements

An allocation of £38,961.84 was approved for improvements to Mill Hill Town Square, including the provision of additional seating, planting, and a permanent Christmas tree. Councillor Val Duschinsky, representing Mill Hill ward, presented the application, explaining that the square is a vital community space used for relaxation, children's activities, and seasonal celebrations, including Christmas carol concerts and Hanukkah events. The funding will cover excavation, electrical installation for festive lighting, the purchase and installation of a mature tree, planters, and benches. Key conditions of the funding are that local shops must agree in writing to cover the ongoing cost of the Christmas tree lighting, and a revenue plan must be in place by 4 October 2024 for the funding to be released. Volunteers will assist with the watering of plants and trees, ensuring no ongoing revenue costs for the council.

Underhill Children's Centre Toilets

The committee agreed to award £44,000 for the refurbishment of toilets at the Underhill Children's Centre. Councillor Tim Roberts, representing the Underhill ward, had submitted the application, which was presented by Councillor Zahra Beg, the Mayor of Barnet. The current facilities are described as being in a dilapidated state, with a strong smell of urine, and lacking facilities for disabled users. The centre is used by approximately 9,000 people annually, including babies, pensioners, and various community groups. The refurbishment will include the creation of separate male, female, and accessible toilet facilities. A condition of the funding is that the new toilet facilities must be fully accessible for people with disabilities. The work is expected to take between four to six weeks and will be overseen by the Underhill School business manager.

Mill Hill Park Toddlers Play Area Deferred

An application for £82,299.95 to repurpose an unused mini-golf area in Mill Hill Park as a dedicated toddler's area, along with the refurbishment of park toilets, was deferred to the next municipal year (2025/26). Councillor Elliot Simberg, who represents Mill Hill ward, had submitted the application, and Councillor Val Duschinsky spoke in support. The decision to defer was made due to concerns about the impact of approving the application on the committee's budget for upcoming meetings. The proposed play area would feature imaginative and experimental play equipment, and the toilet refurbishment would include facilities suitable for small children and hot water. The deferral was supported by a vote of 5 to 0, with 3 abstentions.

Area Committee Funding Updates

The committee noted updates on the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and the Road Safety & Parking Fund for 2024/25. Councillor Emma Whysall raised a query regarding the timeline for community groups to receive funding for previously agreed works, and officers agreed to investigate and arrange payments. The committee members were asked to note the available CIL funding, re-allocated underspends and overspends, and the Road Safety & Parking Fund allocations for the upcoming year, and agreed to do so.

The meeting also included the confirmation of the minutes from the previous meeting, with minor amendments noted. Councillor Sue Baker was welcomed to her first North Area Committee meeting, and the Chair, Councillor Ella Rose, acknowledged the anniversary of 9/11. Declarations of interest were made by Councillor Val Duschinsky, who is a committee member of the Friends of Mill Hill Park.