The Strategic Planning Committee of Barnet Council met on Wednesday 18 March 2026 to discuss a planning application for amendments to the Douglas Bader Park Estate in Colindale. The committee unanimously approved the application, which will lead to an increase in affordable housing and adjustments to building heights to comply with new fire safety regulations.

Douglas Bader Park Estate, Colindale

The committee granted planning permission for amendments to the existing permission for the Douglas Bader Park Estate in Colindale. The application, made under Section 73 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, sought to vary condition 2 of the original permission¹ granted in March 2022. The key changes include the provision of an additional 126 affordable dwellings, bringing the total to 398 and achieving 50% affordable housing on the site. This uplift in affordable housing is a significant benefit, increasing from the original 36%.

The amendments also involve changes to the massing strategy, including the incorporation of second staircases in buildings over 18 metres in height to comply with updated fire safety regulations, such as those outlined in Approved Document B of the Building Regulations. This has led to increases in the height of some blocks, with one building now reaching 12 storeys, while another has been reduced in height to avoid the need for a second staircase. These changes were developed collaboratively with planning officers and the Greater London Authority (GLA), who confirmed they had no strategic issues with the application.

The agent for the applicant, Samuel Freeze of Avison Young, highlighted that these amendments are necessary to ensure the development remains viable and deliverable following the introduction of new fire safety requirements. He stated, Both Hill and Home Group are committed to the highest standards of fire safety in their developments. Therefore, without these amendments, the latter phases cannot be delivered. The application was recommended for approval by officers, who noted that the changes were modest and enabled compliance with regulations while ensuring the scheme's deliverability.

During the discussion, Councillor Philip Cohen inquired about the consultation process, noting the absence of objections. Mr Freeze explained that engagement had been both digital and in-person, with a supportive response from the majority of people who wanted to see the scheme delivered.

The committee voted unanimously to approve the application, subject to conditions and the completion of a Deed of Variation to the Section 106 agreement.

The meeting also marked the final session for the Strategic Planning Committee of the current administration. Councillor Nigel Young, the Chair, took the opportunity to thank committee members, officers, and other stakeholders for their service and dedication over the past four years. He reflected on the committee's achievements, including the approval of approximately 11,000 homes, with around 3,500 of those being affordable homes.