The Cabinet of Barnet Council met on Monday 2 February 2026 to discuss a range of important issues, including the council's financial forecast, housing performance, and plans for private sector licensing. Key decisions included the approval of the Annual Equalities Report, noting the Q3 financial forecast which indicated a balanced position, and the commencement of a public consultation on a proposed selective licensing scheme for private rented properties in ten wards.

The meeting also saw the approval of an updated Outline Business Case for the redevelopment of Stanhope House and Holmsdale House, and the disposal of the Moss Hall Grove site. Furthermore, Cabinet noted the council's housing performance for Q2 2025/26, which showed improvements in several areas, and approved the commencement of a 12-week public consultation on a proposed selective licensing scheme for private rented properties in ten wards across the borough.

Annual Equalities Report Approved

Cabinet approved the Annual Equalities Report for 2025, which details the council's progress against its strategic equality objectives. Councillor Zahra Beg, Cabinet Member for Equalities, Poverty Reduction and the Voluntary & Community Sector, highlighted the report's focus on tackling inequalities and embedding these principles into service delivery. The report celebrated successes in areas such as workforce diversity, homelessness prevention, and improving health outcomes for vulnerable communities. The principles outlined in the report were affirmed as the responsibility of every council department and cabinet member.

Council Finances Forecasted to be Balanced

Councillor Simon Radford, Cabinet Member for Financial Sustainability, presented the Chief Finance Officer's report, which detailed the Q3 financial forecast for 2025/26. The good news was that the council is forecasting a balanced position at year-end, after utilising contingency funds and topping up reserves. This positive outlook was attributed to improved contingency use, driven by a reduction in parking contingency forecasts and a budget environment that negates unachievable savings. The report also detailed the financial forecast for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA), which is expected to be in deficit, and the capital programme, which is forecast to underspend. Cabinet noted these forecasts and approved the write-offs for council tax, business rates, and housing benefit overpayment debt.

New Council Tax and Business Rates Relief Policies Approved

Cabinet approved revised policies for Council Tax Discretionary Relief and Housing Payment Scheme, effective from April 2026. These policies include the introduction of council tax relief for terminally ill residents, a compassionate measure aimed at easing financial burdens during difficult times. Additionally, revised Business Rates Discretionary Relief and Hardship policies were approved, incorporating the government's Supporting Small Business Relief 2026. Authority was delegated to the Executive Director of Finance to make further amendments to the Business Rates policy, following consultation, to include pub relief once full government guidance is issued.

Positive Council Housing Performance Reported

Councillor Ross Houston, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Homes and Regeneration, presented the Council Housing Performance report for Q2 2025/26. The report highlighted Barnet Homes' achievement of a 'C1' rating from the Regulator of Social Housing, the highest possible result. Tenant satisfaction has increased across most measures, with notable improvements in repairs completion times and damp and mould inspections. The report also detailed progress on Awaab's Law preparations, disrepair management, and the ongoing work to improve knowledge of tenants' needs. Cabinet noted the contents of this encouraging report.

Selective Licensing Scheme to be Consulted On

Councillor Ross Houston also presented a report on the Private Sector Housing Licensing Scheme. Following a review of the private rented sector in the borough, it was determined that there is a need for selective licensing in ten wards: Burnt Oak, West Hendon, Golders Green, Hendon, Cricklewood, Colindale North, Childs Hill, Friern Barnet, Finchley Church End, and Colindale South. Cabinet approved the commencement of a 12-week public consultation on this proposal, which aims to raise housing standards, improve property management, and protect tenants.

Acquisition of up to 600 New Affordable Homes Approved

Cabinet approved the Outline Business Case for the acquisition of up to 600 new affordable homes through Opendoor Homes (ODH). This ambitious programme aims to increase the supply of affordable housing in Barnet and contribute to the council's Temporary Accommodation Reduction Plan. The scheme will be financed through a mix of public and private lending, with a focus on delivering affordable and social rent homes, including larger family properties and wheelchair-accessible units. The approval allows for further dialogue with funding partners and the preparation of a Full Business Case.

Stanhope House, Holmsdale House, and Moss Hall Grove Redevelopment Plans Approved

Cabinet approved the updated Outline Business Case for the redevelopment of Stanhope House and Holmsdale House on the Coppies Grove Estate, and the disposal of the Moss Hall Grove site. The project will deliver 57 new affordable homes, with a target of 100% affordable mix, including social rent and shared ownership properties. The disposal of the Moss Hall Grove site will help to cross-subsidise the costs of the Stanhope and Holmsdale House project. Authority was delegated for the finalisation of contractual arrangements and the disposal of Moss Hall Grove.

Brent Cross Update Report Noted

Councillor Ross Houston presented an update on the Brent Cross Cricklewood Regeneration Programme. The report highlighted significant progress, including the completion of Plot 14, marking the delivery of 979 new homes and 662 student rooms. Cabinet noted the progress and approved recommendations to delegate authority for finalising leases and transaction documents to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Leader of the Council, to ensure the continued momentum of this major regeneration project.

Geron Way Replacement Waste Transfer Station Deed of Variation Approved

Cabinet delegated authority to the Executive Director of Growth, in consultation with the Executive Director of Resources and the Leader, to negotiate and agree changes to the existing form of Replacement Lease and related matters for the Geron Way Replacement Waste Transfer Station, and to enter into a Deed of Variation to the Settlement Agreement accordingly.

Cabinet Forward Plan Noted

Cabinet noted the Cabinet Forward Plan, which outlines future key decisions to be considered by the Cabinet.

The meeting concluded with the exclusion of the press and public for the discussion of exempt information relating to Brent Cross and the Geron Way Replacement Waste Transfer Station.