The Council meeting on Tuesday 8th July 2025 addressed a range of significant issues, including concerns over the rollout of electric vehicle charging points, the proliferation of gambling establishments, and the council's approach to caring for residents in care homes. Key decisions were made regarding the implementation of a Youth Justice Plan, the adoption of a Code of Corporate Governance, and amendments to Cabinet member responsibilities.

Electric Vehicle Charging Points

A deputation led by Mr. Michael Lieblich raised significant concerns regarding the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging points. Mr. Lieblich argued that the consultation process had been flawed, with residents, particularly those with disabilities, not being adequately informed or consulted. He highlighted instances where EV bays were installed without sufficient consideration for existing parking needs, leading to residents parking in dangerous areas. Councillor Alex Prager echoed these concerns, stating that EV chargers were being rolled out without proper consultation, impacting residents' ability to park and access essential services. Councillor Mark Shooter questioned the necessity of the rollout given a reported decline in EV sales and the cost to the council. Councillor Alan Schneiderman, Cabinet Member for Environment & Climate Change, defended the rollout, stating that EV charge points were being installed in response to resident demand and that the Temple Fortune charge point was one of the busiest in the borough. He also clarified that blue badge holders were not negatively impacted and that the bays in question were not exclusively for EV use. Councillor Peter Zinkin, Leader of the Conservative Group, called for a report to Cabinet on how to improve the consultation process for EV charging point installations. Councillor Barry Rawlings, Leader of the Council, agreed that officers would provide a written response to Mr. Lieblich's deputation.

Gambling Establishments and Reform

The Council debated a motion proposed by Councillor Emma Whysall, Support National Gambling Reform, which called for urgent reforms to tackle gambling harms and restore decision-making powers to local authorities. Julia Brown, a public health professional and resident of Golders Green, presented a deputation highlighting the increasing concentration of betting shops and adult gaming centres on high streets, which she argued normalises gambling and has devastating impacts on individuals and families. She stated that problem gambling destroys finances, breakups families, and pushes people towards eviction, poverty, and crisis. Councillor Anne Hutton questioned the fitness of the current legislation, dating back to 2005, to address modern gambling harms. Councillor Kath McGuirk raised concerns about the correlation between the proliferation of gambling establishments and areas of poverty, suggesting a link to wealth disparities. Councillor Barry Rawlings, Leader of the Council, proposed that officers prepare a report to the relevant committee on improving local authority powers regarding gambling premises. Councillor Peter Zinkin, Leader of the Conservative Group, supported the motion in principle but proposed an amendment to remove a clause criticising the gambling industry's profitability, arguing that it was unproductive rhetoric. Councillor Josh Mastin-Lee, in his maiden speech, also supported the motion but echoed the call to tone down the rhetoric to facilitate constructive negotiation with the industry. Councillor Mark Shooter expressed personal experience with the harm caused by gambling and advocated for stronger preventative measures. Following debate, the amendment proposed by Councillor Jennifer Grocock was lost, and the substantive motion, Support National Gambling Reform, was carried.

Caring for Residents in Care Homes

Councillor David Longstaff proposed a motion, Caring for our residents, expressing concern that the council was demanding top-up fees from local authority-placed residents in care homes and sheltered accommodation, sometimes with only two weeks' notice, and relocating them to cheaper, potentially out-of-borough, accommodation without proper needs assessments or family discussion. He argued that this caused enormous stress on the residents and their families and that moving settled residents was dangerous to their health, well-being, mental capacity and even their life. Councillor Alison Moore, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, moved an amendment that sought to correct significant and possibly willful inaccuracies in the motion, emphasizing that the council followed established policies and legal requirements, including statutory assessments under the Care Act 2014. She stated that while the council would always work to find appropriate alternative provision, it was not reasonable for the council to cover the costs of a more expensive placement chosen by a self-funder. Councillor Lucy Wakeley supported Councillor Longstaff's motion, expressing concern that vulnerable residents were not being treated with respect and that decisions were being made purely on cost. Councillor Paul Edwards, speaking in support of the amendment, praised the work of adult social care staff and highlighted the council's commitment to a strength-based approach. He also noted the increasing costs of care due to rising life expectancy. Councillor Phil Cohen, also supporting the amendment, accused Councillor Longstaff of playing politics with vulnerable people. The amendment moved by Councillor Alison Moore was agreed, and the motion, as amended, was carried.

Youth Justice Plan 2025-27

The Council approved the Youth Justice Plan 2025-27, presented by Councillor Karen Popely and Councillor Sara Conway. This statutory plan outlines the strategic priorities for preventing youth offending and supporting children within the justice system. Key priorities include early intervention, tackling disproportionality, reducing serious youth violence and exploitation, supporting transitions from custody, and promoting restorative justice. The plan emphasizes a Child First Principle, ensuring young people are treated with dignity and respect, and their voices are heard. Barnet's Youth Justice Services have demonstrated strong performance, with reoffending and custody rates lower than national and London averages. The plan also addresses the overrepresentation of Black and other ethnic minority children in the youth justice system and outlines strategies to tackle serious youth violence and exploitation, including focused interventions for girls. The Council also authorised the Director of Children's Services to implement the plan in partnership with relevant agencies.

Other Key Decisions and Discussions

• Amendments to Cabinet Member Responsibilities: Council approved amendments to the Constitution to reflect changes in the responsibilities of the Leader of the Council and the Cabinet Member for Strategic Partnerships, Economy, and Effective Council, specifically concerning the administration of Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) funds.
• Code of Corporate Governance: Council approved the Code of Corporate Governance for 2025/26, which will be included in the Council's Constitution. This code outlines the principles and practices for good governance within the council.
• Overview and Scrutiny Work Programme and Annual Report: Council noted the Overview and Scrutiny Work Programme for 2025-26 and the Annual Report for 2024-25. These documents outline the planned scrutiny activities and review the work undertaken by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and its sub-committees over the past year.
• Rectification of Pension Fund Payments: Council noted that the Pension Fund Committee had agreed to take no further action regarding a prepayment made to the Barnet Pension Fund, and to approve Option 1 for rectifying additional payments made to the fund. This decision aims to clarify the separation between the Pension Fund and the Council as an employer.
• Waivers for Councillor Absence: Waivers were agreed for Councillor Rose due to illness, pregnancy, or maternity, and for Councillor Matthew Perlberg due to caring for a terminally ill relative abroad, both until the end of January 2026.
• Administrative Matters: Council noted and approved various administrative changes, including updates to committee meeting dates, appointments to outside bodies and council companies, and changes to committee memberships.
• Exception to Call-In: Council noted an exemption from the call-in procedure for a decision taken as a matter of urgency by Cabinet regarding a lease agreement for Street Scene business continuity at North London Business Park. The urgency was due to the risk to business continuity and potential revenue pressure if the opportunity was missed.
• Housing Crisis: Council passed a motion welcoming the government's determination to tackle the housing crisis and requesting the Leader to write to the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Deputy Prime Minister congratulating them on their housing package. Cabinet was also asked to consider how this national effort can be harnessed in Barnet.
• Climate Change: Council reaffirmed its commitment to tackling climate change and becoming a Net Zero borough by 2042. The motion highlighted the progress made by the current administration and committed to working with the Labour government and the Mayor of London on climate initiatives.
• Mayor's Cadet: A joint motion between the Leader of the Council and the Leader of the Opposition agreed to develop relationships with all cadet detachments in Barnet and to appoint a Mayor's Cadet annually on a rotational basis from May 2026.
• Amendments to Cabinet Member Responsibilities: Council approved amendments to the Constitution regarding Cabinet Member responsibilities, specifically concerning the administration of Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) funds.
• Governance, Audit, Risk Management and Standards (GARMS) Committee Annual Report: Council noted and approved the Annual Report of the GARMS Committee for 2024/25.
• Code of Corporate Governance: Council approved the Code of Corporate Governance for 2025/26 for inclusion in the Constitution.
• Youth Justice Plan 2025-27: Council approved the Youth Justice Plan 2025-27, which sets out strategic priorities for preventing youth offending and supporting children in the justice system.
• Amendments to Cabinet Member Responsibilities: Council approved amendments to the Constitution regarding Cabinet Member responsibilities, specifically concerning the administration of Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) funds.
• Housing Crisis: Council passed a motion welcoming the government's determination to tackle the housing crisis and requesting the Leader to write to the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Deputy Prime Minister congratulating them on their housing package. Cabinet was also asked to consider how this national effort can be harnessed in Barnet.
• Climate Change: Council reaffirmed its commitment to tackling climate change and becoming a Net Zero borough by 2042. The motion highlighted the progress made by the current administration and committed to working with the Labour government and the Mayor of London on climate initiatives.
• Mayor's Cadet: A joint motion between the Leader of the Council and the Leader of the Opposition agreed to develop relationships with all cadet detachments in Barnet and to appoint a Mayor's Cadet annually on a rotational basis from May 2026.
• Amendments to Cabinet Member Responsibilities: Council approved amendments to the Constitution regarding Cabinet Member responsibilities, specifically concerning the administration of Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) funds.
• Governance, Audit, Risk Management and Standards (GARMS) Committee Annual Report: Council noted and approved the Annual Report of the GARMS Committee for 2024/25.
• Code of Corporate Governance: Council approved the Code of Corporate Governance for 2025/26 for inclusion in the Constitution.
• Youth Justice Plan 2025-27: Council approved the Youth Justice Plan 2025-27, which sets out strategic priorities for preventing youth offending and supporting children in the justice system.
• Administrative Matters: Council noted and approved changes to committee meeting dates, appointments to outside bodies, appointments to council companies, and changes to committee memberships.
• Exception to Call-In: Council noted an exemption from the call-in procedure for a decision taken as a matter of urgency by Cabinet regarding a lease agreement for Street Scene business continuity at North London Business Park.
• Housing Crisis: Council passed a motion welcoming the government's determination to tackle the housing crisis and requesting the Leader to write to the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Deputy Prime Minister congratulating them on their housing package. Cabinet was also asked to consider how this national effort can be harnessed in Barnet.
• Climate Change: Council reaffirmed its commitment to tackling climate change and becoming a Net Zero borough by 2042. The motion highlighted the progress made by the current administration and committed to working with the Labour government and the Mayor of London on climate initiatives.
• Mayor's Cadet: A joint motion between the Leader of the Council and the Leader of the Opposition agreed to develop relationships with all cadet detachments in Barnet and to appoint a Mayor's Cadet annually on a rotational basis from May 2026.
• Amendments to Cabinet Member Responsibilities: Council approved amendments to the Constitution regarding Cabinet Member responsibilities, specifically concerning the administration of Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) funds.
• Governance, Audit, Risk Management and Standards (GARMS) Committee Annual Report: Council noted and approved the Annual Report of the GARMS Committee for 2024/25.
• Code of Corporate Governance: Council approved the Code of Corporate Governance for 2025/26 for inclusion in the Constitution.
• Youth Justice Plan 2025-27: Council approved the Youth Justice Plan 2025-27, which sets out strategic priorities for preventing youth offending and supporting children in the justice system.
• Administrative Matters: Council noted and approved changes to committee meeting dates, appointments to outside bodies, appointments to council companies, and changes to committee memberships.
• Exception to Call-In: Council noted an exemption from the call-in procedure for a decision taken as a matter of urgency by Cabinet regarding a lease agreement for Street Scene business continuity at North London Business Park.
• Housing Crisis: Council passed a motion welcoming the government's determination to tackle the housing crisis and requesting the Leader to write to the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Deputy Prime Minister congratulating them on their housing package. Cabinet was also asked to consider how this national effort can be harnessed in Barnet.
• Climate Change: Council reaffirmed its commitment to tackling climate change and becoming a Net Zero borough by 2042. The motion highlighted the progress made by the current administration and committed to working with the Labour government and the Mayor of London on climate initiatives.
• Mayor's Cadet: A joint motion between the Leader of the Council and the Leader of the Opposition agreed to develop relationships with all cadet detachments in Barnet and to appoint a Mayor's Cadet annually on a rotational basis from May 2026.
• Amendments to Cabinet Member Responsibilities: Council approved amendments to the Constitution regarding Cabinet Member responsibilities, specifically concerning the administration of Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) funds.
• Governance, Audit, Risk Management and Standards (GARMS) Committee Annual Report: Council noted and approved the Annual Report of the GARMS Committee for 2024/25.
• Code of Corporate Governance: Council approved the Code of Corporate Governance for 2025/26 for inclusion in the Constitution.
• Youth Justice Plan 2025-27: Council approved the Youth Justice Plan 2025-27, which sets out strategic priorities for preventing youth offending and supporting children in the justice system.
• Administrative Matters: Council noted and approved changes to committee meeting dates, appointments to outside bodies, appointments to council companies, and changes to committee memberships.
• Exception to Call-In: Council noted an exemption from the call-in procedure for a decision taken as a matter of urgency by Cabinet regarding a lease agreement for Street Scene business continuity at North London Business Park.
• Housing Crisis: Council passed a motion welcoming the government's determination to tackle the housing crisis and requesting the Leader to write to the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Deputy Prime Minister congratulating them on their housing package. Cabinet was also asked to consider how this national effort can be harnessed in Barnet.
• Climate Change: Council reaffirmed its commitment to tackling climate change and becoming a Net Zero borough by 2042. The motion highlighted the progress made by the current administration and committed to working with the Labour government and the Mayor of London on climate initiatives.
• Mayor's Cadet: A joint motion between the Leader of the Council and the Leader of the Opposition agreed to develop relationships with all cadet detachments in Barnet and to appoint a Mayor's Cadet annually on a rotational basis from May 2026.

EV Charging Point Deputation

A deputation led by Mr. Michael Lieblich raised concerns about the rollout of electric vehicle (EV) charging points, citing a flawed consultation process and inadequate consideration for existing parking needs, particularly for disabled residents. Councillor Alex Prager supported these concerns, describing the rollout as happening without thought of consultation. Councillor Mark Shooter questioned the necessity and cost of the initiative. Councillor Alan Schneiderman, Cabinet Member for Environment & Climate Change, defended the rollout, stating it responded to resident demand and that the Temple Fortune location was heavily utilized. He clarified that blue badge holders were not negatively impacted. Councillor Peter Zinkin, Leader of the Conservative Group, proposed a report to Cabinet on improving the consultation process. Councillor Barry Rawlings, Leader of the Council, agreed that officers would provide a written response to Mr. Lieblich's deputation.

Gambling Reform Motion

Councillor Emma Whysall's motion, Support National Gambling Reform, was debated. Julia Brown, a public health professional, highlighted the escalating national issue of gambling addiction and its societal costs, noting the proliferation of betting shops on high streets and the limitations of current legislation. Councillor Anne Hutton questioned the adequacy of the Gambling Act 2005. Councillor Kath McGuirk suggested a correlation between gambling establishments and areas of poverty. Councillor Barry Rawlings proposed a report to the relevant committee on improving local authority powers regarding gambling premises. Councillor Peter Zinkin supported the motion in principle but proposed an amendment to remove criticism of the gambling industry's profitability, deeming it unproductive. Councillor Josh Mastin-Lee, in his maiden speech, also supported the motion but echoed the call for a more constructive approach. The amendment was lost, and the motion was carried.

Caring for Residents in Care Homes Motion

Councillor David Longstaff's motion, Caring for our residents, raised concerns about the council demanding top-up fees from care home residents and relocating them with short notice, causing distress to residents and families. Councillor Alison Moore, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, moved an amendment to correct perceived inaccuracies in the motion, emphasizing the council's adherence to policy and legal requirements, including statutory assessments. She stated that while the council would seek appropriate alternatives, it was not reasonable to cover the costs of a more expensive placement chosen by a self-funder. Councillor Lucy Wakeley supported Councillor Longstaff's motion, and Councillor Phil Cohen supported the amendment. The amendment was agreed, and the motion, as amended, was carried.

Youth Justice Plan 2025-27

The Council approved the Youth Justice Plan 2025-27, presented by Councillor Karen Popely and Councillor Sara Conway. This statutory plan outlines strategic priorities for preventing youth offending and supporting children in the justice system, emphasizing a Child First Principle. Barnet's Youth Justice Services have demonstrated strong performance, with reoffending and custody rates lower than national and London averages. The plan addresses the overrepresentation of Black and other ethnic minority children and outlines strategies to tackle serious youth violence and exploitation.

Other Decisions

• Amendments to Cabinet Member Responsibilities: Council approved amendments to the Constitution concerning the administration of Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) funds.
• Code of Corporate Governance: Council approved the Code of Corporate Governance for 2025/26 for inclusion in the Constitution.
• Overview and Scrutiny Work Programme and Annual Report: Council noted the Overview and Scrutiny Work Programme for 2025-26 and the Annual Report for 2024-25.
• Rectification of Pension Fund Payments: Council noted that the Pension Fund Committee had agreed to take no further action regarding a prepayment and to approve Option 1 for rectifying additional payments.
• Waivers for Councillor Absence: Waivers were agreed for Councillor Rose and Councillor Perlberg due to specific personal circumstances.
• Administrative Matters: Council noted and approved changes to committee meeting dates, appointments to outside bodies, council companies, and committee memberships.
• Exception to Call-In: Council noted an exemption from the call-in procedure for an urgent decision regarding a lease agreement for Street Scene business continuity.
• Housing Crisis: Council passed a motion welcoming the government's housing package and requesting the Leader to write to the Chancellor and Deputy Prime Minister. Cabinet will also consider how to harness this national effort in Barnet.
• Climate Change: Council reaffirmed its commitment to becoming a Net Zero borough by 2042 and to work with the Labour government and the Mayor of London on climate initiatives.
• Mayor's Cadet: A joint motion agreed to develop relationships with all cadet detachments and appoint a Mayor's Cadet annually from May 2026.

The meeting also included official announcements, apologies for absence, declarations of interest, and the confirmation of minutes from the previous meeting. There were no public questions or petitions. The Council also moved into an exempt part of the meeting to discuss confidential information.