The Barnet Council Cabinet met on Monday 2 February 2026 to discuss a range of important issues, including the Annual Equalities Report, the Q3 Financial Forecast, and plans for private sector housing licensing. Key decisions made included the approval of the Annual Equalities Report, noting the Q3 financial forecast and approving debt write-offs, and approving the commencement of a public consultation on a proposed selective licensing scheme for private rented properties in ten wards.

Annual Equalities Report

Cabinet approved the Annual Equalities Report for 2025, which details the council's progress against its strategic equalities objectives. The report highlighted successes in areas such as workforce equality, diversity, and inclusion, with an increase in the representation of Black staff in senior leadership positions and improvements in disability representation. The council also reported on its work to tackle inequalities through various departments, including initiatives in childhood vaccinations, suicide prevention, and healthy weight management. The report emphasised the importance of embedding equality principles across all council services and working in partnership with communities to address local causes of inequality.

Chief Finance Officer Report: Q3 Financial Forecast and Budget Management

Councillor Simon Radford, Cabinet Member for Financial Sustainability, presented 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 improved position from the Q2 forecast was attributed to a reduction in parking contingency forecasts following the bedding in of new contracts and a more effective budget environment to negate unachievable savings. The report detailed savings primarily driven by additional savings delivered through progression reviews, which focus on supporting individuals with learning disabilities and mental health conditions to increase their independence. The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) forecast, however, indicated a deficit of £4.7 million, resulting in a carry-forward reserve of £6.586 million. The capital programme for this year was underspent by £15 million, with analysis ongoing for reprofiling. The report also noted that the NHS ICBs remain the major debtor, with a dedicated team working to recover outstanding adult social care debt. Cabinet approved the write-offs for Council Tax, Business Rates, and Housing Benefit overpayment debt, and delegated authority to the S151 Officer to approve virements.

Barnet Council's Discretionary Council Tax Discretionary Relief (CTDR) and Housing Payment (HP) Scheme (April 2026) and LB Barnet Discretionary Rate Relief and Hardship Relief Policy Amendments in Business Rates

Councillor Simon Radford also presented a report on discretionary council tax relief and business rates relief policy amendments. A key decision was the approval of a revised Council Tax Discretionary Relief and Housing Payment Policy for April 2026, which includes the introduction of council tax relief for terminally ill residents. This compassionate measure aims to provide financial relief and reduce stress for those facing terminal illness. Additionally, Cabinet approved a revised Business Rates Discretionary Relief and Hardship Policy for 2026-2029, which includes the addition of 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.

Council Housing Performance Q2 2025/26

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 had increased overall, with particular improvements noted in repairs prioritisation and fire safety actions. The report also detailed progress on addressing damp and mould, and the introduction of new technology for the contact centre. Cabinet noted the contents of this report.

Private Sector Housing Licensing Scheme

Councillor Ross Houston also presented a report on the Private Sector Housing Licensing Scheme. This report sought approval to commence a 12-week public consultation on the proposal to introduce a selective licensing scheme for private rented properties in ten specific wards: Burnt Oak, West Hendon, Golders Green, Hendon, Cricklewood, Colindale North, Childs Hill, Friern Barnet, Finchley Church End, and Colindale South. These wards were identified based on evidence of poor housing conditions, deprivation, and crime. Cabinet approved the commencement of this public consultation.

Outline Business Case for the acquisition of up to 600 new affordable homes through Opendoor Homes (TBG Open Door Limited)

Councillor Ross Houston presented an 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, reduce reliance on temporary accommodation, and deliver larger family homes. The proposal was approved, with Cabinet noting the review of the current ODH 300 Acquisitions Programme and approving the development of the ODH 600 Acquisitions Programme. Authority was delegated to officers to determine preferred funding partners and continue dialogue with grant funding partners. A Full Business Case will be prepared for further consideration.

Stanhope House and Holmsdale House (Coppies Grove) and Moss Hall Grove Updated Outline Business Case

Councillor Ross Houston also presented an updated Outline Business Case for the redevelopment of Stanhope House and Holmsdale House on the Coppies Grove Estate, and the disposal of the site at Moss Hall Grove. The project aims to provide high-quality affordable housing, contributing to the council's housing targets and reducing temporary accommodation costs. Cabinet approved the updated Outline Business Case for Stanhope House and Holmsdale House, including a total new Capital budget of £27,348,601. Authority was delegated for the finalisation of contractual arrangements and the approval of the Full Business Case. Cabinet also delegated authority for the approval of the disposal of Moss Hall Grove as part of the Full Business Case.

Brent Cross Update Report

Councillor Ross Houston presented an update on the Brent Cross Cricklewood Regeneration Programme. The report highlighted significant progress, including the completion of Plot 14 and the delivery of 979 new homes and 662 student rooms. Key recommendations included delegating authority to the Chief Executive for finalising lease agreements with Sheffield Hallam University and approving documentation for the sale of Plot 11. Authority was also delegated for agreeing changes to the First Phase Proposal and associated legal documentation, and for matters arising from the Vattenfall divestment. Cabinet also approved an increase in spend for legal consultancy services and agreed to the leasing of Claremont Park and the Pavilion.

Geron Way Replacement Waste Transfer Station - Deed of Variation to Settlement Agreement

Councillor Barry Rawlings, Leader of the Council, presented a report on the Geron Way Replacement Waste Transfer Station. 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 lease and related matters, and to enter into a Deed of Variation to the Settlement Agreement.

Cabinet Forward Plan - Key Decision Schedule

Cabinet noted the Forward Plan – Key Decision Schedule.

The meeting concluded with the exclusion of the press and public for exempt items relating to Brent Cross and Geron Way.