The Cabinet meeting on 24 February 2026 addressed a wide range of critical issues, including the council's financial strategy, housing development, and the provision of essential services. Key decisions included the approval of the 2026/27 budget and Medium Term Financial Strategy, the disposal of council land at Park House and Avion Crescent, and the dissolution of Places for Barnet LLP. The Cabinet also agreed to a new inter-authority agreement for mortuary services and reviewed annual rent and service charge proposals.

Financial Strategy and Budget

The Cabinet approved the council's budget for 2026/27 and its Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026-2031. This included a 2.98% increase in the general element of Council Tax and a 2% increase for the Social Care Precept. The MTFS anticipates a budget deficit that increases annually, with significant pressures stemming from increased demand for services, particularly social care and temporary accommodation. The council's request for Exceptional Financial Support (EFS) for 2026-27 was confirmed as being minded to be approved by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC), with the council being recognised as well-run. The Cabinet also approved the Reserves & Balances Policy, the Debt Management Policy, and changes to rents and service charges for social rented homes, affordable rented homes, and temporary accommodation.

Housing and Regeneration

A significant decision was made regarding the disposal of council land interests at Park House and Avion Crescent to London Placemaking. This disposal is unconditional and follows the dissolution of Places for Barnet LLP. The Cabinet also approved variations to build-to-rent lease agreements to increase the contractual term from 50 to 125 years, a technical amendment to enable access to grant funding from the Greater London Authority (GLA).

The Cabinet also approved the acquisition of 221 social and affordable rent homes from Vistry at the Dollis Valley (DV) Estate Regeneration Phases 4 & 5, subject to GLA grant funding and the approval of a final business case. This decision includes the removal of L&Q as the Registered Provider for these phases and the agreement to a licence with Vistry for early works.

Furthermore, the Cabinet approved the Temporary Accommodation Acquisition Policy, delegating authority for entering into leases and approving freehold acquisitions up to £5 million. This policy aims to secure temporary accommodation on longer leases and acquisitions to alleviate pressure and reduce subsidy loss.

Services for Children and Families

The Cabinet responded to reports from the Fostering Task and Finish Group and the Young Carers Task and Finish Group, agreeing to proposed responses to their recommendations. For fostering, the Cabinet agreed to explore options such as lower council tax and free parking for foster carers, while acknowledging the need for financial modelling. Regarding young carers, the Cabinet committed to strengthening identification and support, with a focus on improving reporting from GPs and hospitals.

An interim solution for Special Educational Need (SEN) provision was approved, involving the appointment of a design and build contractor for modular works at the Queenswell Federation site. This measure aims to address the increasing need for SEN places while a new school is considered.

Contract Reviews and Procurement

The Cabinet reviewed the Capita contract, authorising delegated authority for the award of contracts for Customer Services, Information Technology, and Revenues and Benefits. This review is part of a transition process following a 13-year outsourcing agreement. The Annual Procurement Forward Plan (APFP) for 2026-27 was also approved, enabling the commencement of procurement activities.

Other Key Decisions

A new Inter-Authority Agreement for mortuary services with Brent and Harrow was approved, extending the existing arrangement at Northwick Park Hospital until 2041. The Cabinet also noted the contents of the report on Stage 2 of the review of the management agreement with Barnet Homes, approving the approach to further explore potential efficiencies and service improvements. The Fosters Estate & Chesir House Progress Update was noted, with authority delegated to the Chief Executive to enter settlement discussions.