The Cabinet of Barnet Council met on Tuesday 18 November 2025, discussing a wide range of issues including the adoption of a new 20mph zone policy, a plan to reduce reliance on temporary accommodation, and an update on the Brent Cross development. Key decisions included approving the new 20mph zone policy, adopting the Temporary Accommodation Reduction Plan, and noting progress on the Brent Cross regeneration.

20MPH ZONE POLICY ADOPTED

Cabinet approved the new 20mph zone policy, which will allow neighbourhoods to propose areas for lower speed limits. The policy aims to improve road safety, particularly for vulnerable road users, and encourage active travel. The Director of Highways and Transportation, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change, will be authorised to publicise the policy and assess neighbourhood proposals for implementation. This decision follows a public consultation where 57% of respondents opposed the policy overall, but 58.7% supported a neighbourhood-led approach.

TEMPORARY ACCOMMODATION REDUCTION PLAN APPROVED

A plan to address the rising costs and demand for temporary accommodation (TA) was approved. The Temporary Accommodation Reduction Plan 2025-2030 outlines actions to maximise homelessness prevention, increase the supply of affordable homes, and reduce reliance on expensive emergency TA. The plan highlights significant financial pressures, with TA costs projected to rise from £14m in 2024/25 to £31m by 2030 without intervention. The council will continue to lobby the government for increased funding and reforms, including the removal of the Local Housing Allowance cap for TA and increased LHA rates.

BRENT CROSS DEVELOPMENT UPDATE

An update on the Brent Cross regeneration programme was presented, highlighting significant progress including the completion of several residential plots and the opening of Neighbourhood Square. Two new retailers, Co-Op and Urban Leisure Group, are set to open in the coming months. The report also noted the approval of the Third Phase proposal, which will deliver approximately 1,418 homes, including 82 affordable homes. Cabinet delegated authority to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Leader of the Council, to finalise terms for the sale of Plot 42 for co-living use.

OTHER KEY DECISIONS

Cabinet also approved changes to the Household Recycling and Waste Policy to incorporate food waste collections, a crucial step towards meeting statutory requirements under the Environment Act 2021. They noted the progress on the Local Implementation Plan (LIP) for 2025-2028 and approved the inclusion of schemes for the 2026/27 funding submission.

Furthermore, the Parks and Open Spaces Strategy (2025-2035) was approved for public consultation. This strategy aims to provide high-quality, inclusive, and sustainable parks that enhance wellbeing, celebrate local identity, improve biodiversity, and empower communities.

A waiver of contract procedure rules was approved for the direct award of a contract for the Integrated Community Equipment Service to 'Provide Care Solutions Limited' due to the urgent need to ensure service continuity following the liquidation of the previous provider.

Finally, approval was given for the Tarmac Kier JV Depot Provision, allowing the highway maintenance contract to operate from a new depot at Pickett's Lock Lane, Enfield, from April 2026, addressing the unavailability of the current Harper Lane site.