Councillor Shimon Ryde

Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Wednesday 21st January, 2026 7.00 pm

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting addressed the significant increase in empty homes in Barnet, exploring strategies to bring them back into use and improve council services. The committee also reviewed the council's approach to managing its estates and supporting the voluntary and community sector, alongside updates on ongoing task and finish group projects and the council's forward plan.

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.

Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Thursday 13th November, 2025 7.00 pm

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee of Barnet Council met on 13 November 2025, to discuss several key issues including a new Parks and Open Spaces Strategy, temporary accommodation pressures, and the council's financial forecast. The committee made recommendations to the cabinet regarding the consultation period for the Parks and Open Spaces Strategy, and requested more detailed information on the action plan. The committee also stressed the need for increased lobbying of central government to address temporary accommodation costs, and requested a review of the council's approach to recovering debt.