The Cabinet meeting on 24 February 2026 saw decisions made regarding the disposal of council land, the approval of the annual budget and council tax, and the adoption of new policies for fostering and temporary accommodation. Key discussions also included the ongoing financial challenges facing the council and strategies for future service delivery.

Places for Barnet

Cabinet approved the dissolution of the Places for Barnet LLP and the unconditional disposal of council land interests at Park House and Avian Crescent to London Placemaking. This decision was made following a review of the council's changed financial position and current market conditions. The Executive Director of Growth, in consultation with the Leader of the Council, was authorised to complete the necessary legal documentation. Additionally, officers were requested to explore options with Mill Hill Golf Club for a new clubhouse. A break notice on Trinity Church was also approved to terminate the Avian Crescent lease, ensuring vacant possession before sale completion.

Cabinet Response to the Fostering Task and Finish Group Report

Cabinet agreed to the proposed responses to each of the recommendations from the Fostering Task and Finish Group. The report highlighted challenges in recruiting foster carers, particularly noting that approximately 40% of current foster carers are over 60, which will lead to a significant loss of experienced carers in the coming years. The group identified issues with the lengthy checks required for new foster carers and the low acceptance rate of applicants. Cabinet agreed to explore recommendations aimed at improving recruitment and retention, though some aspects, such as council tax and parking benefits for foster carers, require further financial modelling.

Cabinet Response to the Young Carers Task and Finish Group Report

Cabinet agreed to the proposed responses to each of the recommendations from the Young Carers Task and Finish Group. The report highlighted that an estimated 6,500 young carers aged 5 to 17 live in Barnet, with only 13% known to be receiving support. The group's review focused on strengthening the identification of young carers, acknowledging the hidden nature of their roles and the impact caring responsibilities can have on their education, social opportunities, and well-being. While progress has been made in schools, concerns remain about lower reporting levels from GPs and hospitals. Cabinet committed to supporting the recommendations to raise awareness and improve identification.

Business Planning 2026-2031 (Medium Term Financial Strategy) and 2026/27 Budget

Councillor Simon Radford, Cabinet Member for Financial Sustainability, presented the report on the Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) and the 2026/27 Budget. Cabinet noted supplementary papers and approved a minor amendment to the report regarding a one-penny difference in the Band C council tax. The Cabinet recommended to Council the approval of the MTFS, detailed revenue budgets, and a 2.98% increase in the general element of Council Tax, alongside a 2% increase for the Social Care Precept. The Capital Strategy, Capital Programme, Treasury Management Strategy, HRA Business Plan, and the Council Tax Support Scheme were also recommended for approval. Cabinet approved the Reserves & Balances Policy, Debt Management Policy, changes to rents and service charges for 2026/27, and the Gross Schools Budget. Authority was delegated to the Chief Finance Officer to amend the Council Tax resolution for changes to the Greater London Authority precept.

Our Plan for Barnet - Corporate Plan Review 2025-2026

Cabinet noted the contents of the Our Plan for Barnet – Delivery and Outcomes Framework, Quarter 3 (Q3) 2025-26 report and the Our Plan for Barnet Review 2025 .

School Funding Report

Councillor Pauline Coakley Webb, Cabinet Member for Family Friendly Barnet, presented the report on school funding. Cabinet noted the annual report and approved the formula funding for schools, ensuring no reduction in funding per pupil. The Executive Director of Children's Services was authorised to approve the final Authority Proforma Tool for submission to the Department for Education. Cabinet also recommended to Council that any changes to the Schools Budget resulting from the final 2026/27 Dedicated Schools Grant and Post-16 settlement be delegated to the Executive Director of Children's Services in consultation with the Director of Finance.

Authorisation to Appoint a Design and Build Contractor, Receive Delegated Authority and to Submit Planning Permission for Interim Special Educational Need Provision on Queenswell Federation Site (Whetstone)

Councillor Ross Houston, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Homes and Regeneration, left the room for this item due to a declared interest as a school governor. Councillor Pauline Coakley Webb, Cabinet Member for Family Friendly Barnet, presented the report. Cabinet authorised the procurement of a contractor for modular build works for SEND place provision at Queenswell and other spaces. They approved the submission of a planning application for interim provision on the Queenswell Federation site and delegated authority to the Executive Director of Children and Family Services to award the contract. Future phases of work will be reported back as required.

Capita Contract Review

Councillor Simon Radford, Cabinet Member for Financial Sustainability, presented the report on the Capita contract review. Cabinet noted comments and recommendations from the Overview and Scrutiny Committee. Following consideration of exempt information, Cabinet authorised delegated authority to the Executive Director, Strategy & Innovation, and the Executive Director of Resources for the award of contracts in respect of Customer Services, Information Technology, and Revenues and Benefits, subject to due diligence and legal documentation. Authority was also delegated for necessary actions relating to transfers, short-term extensions for transition, and to note progress and next steps.

Annual Procurement Forward Plan (APFP) 2026-27

Councillor Barry Rawlings, Leader of the Council, thanked Susan Lowe, Head of Procurement, for her work as this was her last Cabinet meeting before retirement. Cabinet approved the Annual Procurement Forward Plan to enable the commencement of procurement activity for 2026/27 to 2028/29. They noted that procurement activity would be subject to service confirmation of budget and other constitutional approvals.

Inter Authority Agreement - Mortuary Services

Councillor Alan Schneiderman, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change, presented the report. Cabinet approved Barnet entering into a new Inter-Authority Agreement with Brent and Harrow for a shared mortuary service at Northwick Park Hospital from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2041, with a break clause after 10 years, and a new 99-year lease for the adjoining site. This was considered the best option for quality and value for money.

Annual Review of Rents and Service Charges 2026-2027

Councillor Ross Houston, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Homes and Regeneration, presented the report. Cabinet noted and agreed the proposed rent increases for existing council tenants, temporary accommodation, and service charges, all to take effect from 1 April 2026. This paper was noted and agreed to go to full Council for approval.

Build to Rent Lease Amendment

Councillor Barry Rawlings and Councillor Ross Houston presented the report. Cabinet approved variations to the Agreement for Lease to increase the contractual term in underleases from 50 to 125 years, with a break clause for the Council after 50 years. They also approved variations to permit leases to be completed at start on site or golden brick rather than practical completion, and to increase the Council's sub-underlease to its Management Company. Authority was delegated to the Executive Director of Growth to finalise and execute necessary legal documentation.

Temporary Accommodation Reduction Plan

Councillor Ross Houston presented the report. Cabinet approved the Temporary Accommodation Acquisition Policy and delegated authority to the Executive Director of Growth, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Homes and Regeneration and the Executive Director of Resources, to enter into leases and approve freehold acquisitions up to a value of £5 million, provided they have an approved budget. This policy aims to secure temporary accommodation on longer lease terms and expand the acquisition policy to manage pressures more effectively.

Stage 2 of the Review of the Management Agreement with Barnet Homes

Councillor Ross Houston presented the report. Cabinet noted the contents of the report and approved the approach to Stage Two of the review of the management agreement with Barnet Homes. This stage will focus on exploring potential efficiencies and service improvements by working more closely with Barnet Group.

Dollis Valley (DV) Estate Regeneration Phases 4 & 5

Following consideration of exempt information, Cabinet approved the acquisition of 221 social and affordable rent homes from Vistry, subject to grant funding and business case approval. A further report will be presented to Cabinet following the formal approval of Greater London Authority grant funding. Amendments were made to the recommendations, including the removal of L&Q as the registered provider for phases 4 & 5 and the inclusion of clauses for coordinating management. Cabinet also agreed to enter into a licence with Vistry for early works.

Fosters Estate & Chesir House Progress Update

Cabinet noted the contents of the report, including exempt information. Authority was delegated to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Leader and the s151 officer, to enter settlement discussions and develop options for the way forward.

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 the discussion of exempt information relating to Places for Barnet and Dollis Valley (DV) Estate Regeneration Phases 4 & 5.