Councillor Ross Houston

Extraordinary Council, Council - Tuesday 2nd December, 2025 7.00 pm

The extraordinary meeting of Barnet Council was called to discuss a motion regarding secrecy and failures in corporate parenting following the deaths of three care-experienced young people. The council agreed to strengthen briefing protocols for members and ensure that all corporate parents are immediately informed of any event involving looked-after young persons which may reasonably be expected to require an inquest. An amendment to the motion calling for the resignation of the Leader of the Council and the Cabinet Member for Family Friendly Barnet was rejected.

Cabinet - Tuesday 18th November, 2025 7.00 pm

The Barnet Council cabinet met to discuss a range of issues, including financial planning, housing, environmental initiatives, and community safety. Key decisions included approving a temporary accommodation reduction plan, Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs), and a 20mph zone policy.

Council - Tuesday 21st October, 2025 7.00 pm

The Barnet Council meeting on 21 October 2025 included tributes to former councillors Vanessa Gearson and Agnes Slocum, a discussion on high streets resulting in a decision to provide a written response to a deputation, and a discussion on public engagement in major developments, also resulting in a decision to provide a written report. The council also unanimously carried a joint motion condemning the Yom Kippur terrorist attack in Manchester.

Cabinet - Tuesday 16th September, 2025 7.00 pm

The Barnet Council Cabinet met to discuss a range of issues, including financial planning, community safety, and development projects. Key decisions included approving a plan to address the council's financial challenges, rescinding a previous agreement related to Copthall Playing Fields, and adopting a rights of way improvement plan. The cabinet also approved the Economic Development Framework 2025-2030 and the Placemaking Framework.

Strategic Planning Committee - Thursday 4th September, 2025 7.00 pm

At a meeting of the Strategic Planning Committee, Barnet Council resolved to approve plans for a new hotel in West Finchley, and for reserved matters relating to a residential development adjacent to Finchley Memorial Hospital. The committee agreed to conditions for the Shakespeare Road development relating to public realm improvements, fenestration, and vehicle servicing, and for the Finchley Memorial Hospital development relating to urban design and secure design.