This week in Barnet:

Council Approves Budget with Tax Rise, Tackles Housing Disposals and Supports Young Carers

Barnet Council's Cabinet met on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, to make crucial decisions on the borough's financial future, housing development, and support for vulnerable residents. The meeting saw the approval of the 2026/27 budget, which includes a council tax increase, alongside significant decisions on the disposal of council land and enhanced support for young carers.

Budget Approved Amidst Financial Pressures

The Cabinet has approved the council's budget for 2026/27 and its Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026-2031. This includes a 2.98% increase in the general council tax and a 2% increase for the Social Care Precept. This decision comes as the MTFS forecasts a growing budget deficit, driven by increased demand for services, particularly in social care and temporary accommodation.

The council's request for Exceptional Financial Support (EFS) for 2026-27 has been provisionally approved by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC), recognising Barnet as a well-run council. However, the ongoing financial pressures mean difficult choices are being made. The Cabinet also approved changes to rents and service charges for social and affordable rented homes, and temporary accommodation.

This budget aims to balance essential service provision with the reality of rising costs and demand. For residents, particularly those on lower incomes or relying on council services, the council tax increase will mean a higher financial burden, while the continued demand for social care could lead to increased pressure on support services.

• Cabinet meeting details

Land Disposals to Fund Housing and Regeneration

A key decision involved the unconditional disposal of council land interests at Park House and Avion Crescent to London Placemaking. This move follows the dissolution of Places for Barnet LLP and is intended to unlock development potential and secure new housing. The Cabinet also approved variations to build-to-rent lease agreements, extending terms to 125 years to access Greater London Authority (GLA) grant funding.

Furthermore, the council has agreed to acquire 221 social and affordable rent homes from Vistry at the Dollis Valley Estate Regeneration Phases 4 & 5, subject to GLA grant funding. This acquisition aims to increase the supply of much-needed affordable housing in the borough.

These decisions reflect a strategy to leverage council assets for regeneration and housing delivery. While the disposal of land can generate revenue and facilitate development, it also means a loss of direct council control over these sites. The focus on acquiring new homes directly addresses the critical shortage of affordable housing, which has a direct impact on residents struggling to find suitable and affordable places to live.

• Cabinet meeting details

Enhanced Support for Young Carers and Foster Families

The Cabinet responded positively to recommendations from the Fostering Task and Finish Group and the Young Carers Task and Finish Group. For fostering, options such as lower council tax and free parking for foster carers will be explored, acknowledging the vital role they play in caring for Barnet's children.

The response to the Young Carers report commits to strengthening the identification and support for these often-hidden caregivers. This includes improving reporting from GPs and hospitals, a crucial step in ensuring young people caring for family members receive the recognition and assistance they need. The Cabinet also approved an interim solution for Special Educational Need (SEN) provision, involving modular works at the Queenswell Federation site to address the growing demand for SEN places.

These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to supporting some of the borough's most vulnerable groups. For young carers, improved identification and support can mean better access to education, social opportunities, and crucial respite, mitigating the significant impact their caring responsibilities can have on their own well-being and development.

• Cabinet meeting details

Other Matters

The Cabinet also reviewed the Capita contract, authorising delegated authority for the award of contracts for Customer Services, Information Technology, and Revenues and Benefits. The Annual Procurement Forward Plan (APFP) for 2026-27 was approved, enabling the commencement of procurement activities. A new Inter-Authority Agreement for mortuary services with Brent and Harrow was approved, extending the existing arrangement at Northwick Park Hospital until 2041. Updates on the Fosters Estate & Chesir House were noted, with authority delegated for settlement discussions.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a summary of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• Council on Thursday 05 March 2026 - Meeting Link. The full council will convene for its regular meeting, likely to discuss the budget and other key council business.
• Licensing Sub-Committee on Thursday 12 March 2026 - Meeting Link. This sub-committee will review a premises licence application and the procedure for licensing hearings.
• Children and Education Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee on Thursday 12 March 2026 - Meeting Link. The sub-committee will likely discuss matters related to children's services and education.
• Planning Committee on Wednesday 11 March 2026 - Meeting Link. The committee will consider planning applications.
• Safer Communities Partnership Board on Friday 13 March 2026 - Meeting Link. This board will discuss community safety initiatives.

This week in Barnet:

Council Faces Scrutiny Over Construction Quality and Financial Oversight

Barnet Council's Governance, Audit, Risk Management and Standards Committee (GARMS) met on Tuesday, 17 February 2026, to tackle a range of critical issues, from ensuring the quality of construction projects to maintaining robust financial governance. The committee reviewed reports on the council's risk management framework, internal audit progress, and treasury management, alongside an external auditor's findings that highlighted ongoing concerns.

Urgent Need for Construction Quality Assurance

A significant focus of the meeting was a report addressing concerns about poor quality control in construction projects. The report, presented by Chris Smith, Assistant Director – Estates and Decarbonisation, and Sudi Pakeezah Rahman, Project Manager, aimed to improve how the council manages its own building projects. The committee was asked to agree to recommendations including:

• Implementing structured, independent Quality Assurance (QA) audits for all major projects.
• Ensuring these audits are conducted by suitably qualified professionals.
• Utilising the Concerto Asset Management System as a client-side repository for QA evidence.
• Strengthening procurement processes to mandate material traceability and digital evidence of product origin.
• Considering the appointment of a client-side Clerk of Works for major projects.

Councillor Arjun Mittra, Chair of the committee, described the work as possibly one of the most consequential bits of work that we have done on this committee, drawing parallels to the tragic consequences of poor quality control exposed after the Grenfell Tower tragedy. The recommendations are designed to prevent potential future failures and ensure the safety and longevity of council-built infrastructure.

• GARMS Committee Report on Construction Industry Quality Assurance

Internal Audit Uncovers Procurement and Declaration of Interest Weaknesses

The committee received the Internal Audit Q3 2025-26 Progress Report, which highlighted areas requiring improvement. While overall progress against the annual audit plan was on track, two audits received limited assurance.

One audit into procurement and supply management within the highways service identified three high-risk findings:

• Insufficient evidence that procurement rules were followed, with missing documentation for contract awards.
• Weak setup and use of the Oracle purchasing system, leading to reduced visibility of supplier spend.
• A lack of routine oversight of supplier spend, despite the system holding the necessary information.

These issues, while focused on highways, are not unique to that service, as procurement is a central function. Lessons learned will be applied council-wide.

A second audit into officer declarations of interest revealed a lack of clear ownership and oversight, with no central record of completed declarations and instances where staff had no declaration on record or where declared interests lacked senior review. HR has since taken ownership of this process.

These findings are particularly concerning as they relate to fundamental controls over spending and potential conflicts of interest, which can have significant financial and reputational implications for the council and its residents.

• Internal Audit Q3 2025-26 Progress Report

External Auditors Raise Concerns on Financial Sustainability and Timeliness

The committee received the Grant Thornton External Audit Findings Report 2024/25 and Auditor's Annual Report 2024/25. While progress has been made, auditors noted ongoing concerns regarding financial sustainability and the timely production of accounts.

• Financial Sustainability: Auditors highlighted an increased need for the council to access financial support mechanisms, which essentially allow for asset sales or borrowing without addressing underlying issues. This remains a key area of focus for future audits.
• Timeliness of Accounts: The council experienced a delay in producing its accounts for 2024/25, missing the 30 June deadline. This is a recurring issue that auditors are pressing the council to address, especially as statutory deadlines are set to become even tighter.
• IFRS 16 Leases: The implementation of IFRS 16, which brings operating leases onto the balance sheet, has presented challenges across the sector, including Barnet. Auditors noted errors in disclosures, requiring substantial redrafting. This complexity can impact the accuracy of the council's financial statements.

The external auditors' findings underscore the importance of robust financial management and timely reporting to ensure public funds are managed effectively and transparently.

• 2024-25 External Audit Findings Report

Licensing Sub-Committee Considers Controversial Adult Gaming Centre Application

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday, 19 February 2026, to consider a contentious application for a new Adult Gaming Centre (AGC) at 17 Varley Parade, The Hyde, London NW9 6RR. The application by Future Leisure Limited has drawn significant objections from the Barnet Council Public Health Directorate, raising concerns about the potential for increased gambling-related harm in an area already identified with vulnerabilities.

The Public Health Directorate's representation argues that granting the licence could contravene licensing objectives, particularly concerning the protection of children and vulnerable persons, and the prevention of gambling from becoming a source of crime or disorder. They highlight that an AGC, with its reliance on continuous machine-based play, represents a material change in the intensity of gambling and could exacerbate existing issues in the Colindale South area, which is noted for its deprivation and housing insecurity.

While the Police have reached an agreement with the applicant on a set of conditions that would address their concerns, the Public Health Directorate's objections remain a significant point of contention. These conditions include robust CCTV, a Think 25 proof of age scheme, and specific staffing requirements. However, Public Health argues that the applicant's risk assessment does not sufficiently address how local vulnerabilities will be mitigated in the context of high-intensity gambling.

The Sub-Committee's decision will have direct implications for the local community, balancing the applicant's commercial interests with the council's responsibility to protect public health and well-being.

• Licensing Sub-Committee meeting details

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a summary of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• Cabinet on Tuesday 24 February 2026 - Meeting Link. The Cabinet will discuss the council's financial planning, corporate plan review, school funding, and various regeneration and contract updates.
• Council on Thursday 05 March 2026 - Meeting Link. The full council will convene for its regular meeting.

This week in Barnet:

Council Grapples with Community Equipment Provider Insolvency, Secures New Service

Barnet Council is navigating the fallout from the insolvency of its previous community equipment provider, NRS Healthcare, which collapsed in August 2025. The Adults and Health Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, to review the council's response and the new contractual arrangements put in place with Provide Care Solutions. This situation highlights the fragility of supply chains for essential services and the council's efforts to ensure continuity of care for vulnerable residents.

The insolvency of NRS Healthcare created immediate challenges in providing vital aids and adaptations to Barnet residents. The report presented to the committee detailed the contingency measures implemented by the council and its partners to safeguard service delivery during this critical period. The new provider, Provide Care Solutions, is now part of the North London Community Equipment Partnership, a collaborative effort to ensure a stable and efficient service.

Councillor Alison Moore, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, was expected to provide an update on this and other key areas. The committee reviewed the contractual performance of the new service, including delivery volumes, collection, and recycling rates, and discussed the challenges encountered during the transition. Ensuring timely access to community equipment is crucial for enabling individuals to live independently and safely in their own homes, and any disruption can have a significant impact on their quality of life and the burden on carers.

• Adults and Health Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting details

New Adult Gaming Centre Application Sparks Public Health Concerns

A controversial application for a new Adult Gaming Centre (AGC) at 17 Varley Parade, The Hyde, London NW9 6RR, was considered by the Licensing Sub-Committee on Thursday, 19 February 2026. The application by Future Leisure Limited has drawn significant objections from the Barnet Council Public Health Directorate, raising concerns about the potential for increased gambling-related harm in an area already identified with vulnerabilities.

The Public Health Directorate's representation argues that granting the licence could contravene licensing objectives, particularly concerning the protection of children and vulnerable persons, and the prevention of gambling from becoming a source of crime or disorder. They highlight that an AGC, with its reliance on continuous machine-based play, represents a material change in the intensity of gambling and could exacerbate existing issues in the Colindale South area, which is noted for its deprivation and housing insecurity.

While the Police have reached an agreement with the applicant on a set of conditions that would address their concerns, the Public Health Directorate's objections remain a significant point of contention. These conditions include robust CCTV, a Think 25 proof of age scheme, and specific staffing requirements. However, Public Health argues that the applicant's risk assessment does not sufficiently address how local vulnerabilities will be mitigated in the context of high-intensity gambling.

The Sub-Committee's decision will have direct implications for the local community, balancing the applicant's commercial interests with the council's responsibility to protect public health and well-being.

• Licensing Sub-Committee meeting details

Council Prepares for Workforce Strategy and Pay Policy Review

Barnet Council's Employment Sub-Committee met on Thursday, 12 February 2026, to discuss the council's strategic direction for its workforce and remuneration policies. The committee reviewed the draft Workforce Strategy for 2026–2028 and the Pay Policy Statement for 2026–2027, crucial documents that shape the council's ability to attract, retain, and support its employees.

Building a Future-Ready Workforce

The proposed Workforce Strategy aims to create a future-ready, inclusive, and resilient workforce capable of delivering the council's priorities. Key ambitions include:

• Building a future-ready workforce: This involves embedding digital confidence, curiosity, and an innovation mindset, aligning skills with evolving needs.
• Attracting and retaining diverse talent: The strategy focuses on creating accessible career pathways and positioning Barnet as an attractive employer.
• Supporting staff well-being and growth: Prioritising mental health, staff recognition, and inclusive leadership.
• Delivering sustainable quality services: Empowering innovation, collaboration, and using data to streamline delivery.

The strategy acknowledges the need to address the Equality Act 2010 and the Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED), outlining measures to eliminate discrimination and promote equality. This focus is vital for ensuring that the council's workforce reflects the diversity of Barnet's residents and that all employees are treated fairly and have opportunities for development.

Pay Policy Statement: Ensuring Fair Remuneration

The draft Pay Policy Statement for 2026-2027 outlines the council's approach to staff remuneration, including senior management and the lowest-paid employees. Key aspects include:

• Senior Management Pay: Details on pay grades, job evaluation, and performance-based pay progression.
• Lowest Paid Employees: A commitment to paying at least the London Living Wage, with the lowest pay point exceeding this threshold.
• Pay Dispersion: Ratios are provided for the highest paid role (Chief Executive) compared to median and lowest paid roles.
• Pay Gaps: The statement includes information on the gender pay gap and ongoing analysis of the ethnicity pay gap.

The council's commitment to fair pay and equal opportunities is fundamental to maintaining staff morale and ensuring the effective delivery of public services.

• Employment Sub-Committee meeting details

Other Matters

• The Adults and Health Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee also discussed updates on the Barnet Vaccinations Programme, the Cancer Screening Health Ambassadors Project, and the progress of various Task and Finish Groups, including those focusing on Elective Home Education, Youth Homelessness, and Food Security. The committee also reviewed the Cabinet Forward Plan to identify areas for pre-decision scrutiny. Adults and Health Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting details

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a summary of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• Governance, Audit, Risk Management and Standards Committee (GARMS) on Tuesday 17 February 2026 - Meeting Link. The committee will review the council's risk landscape, treasury management performance, and internal audit progress.
• Cabinet on Tuesday 24 February 2026 - Meeting Link. The Cabinet will discuss various council matters.
• Strategic Planning Committee on Thursday 26 February 2026 - Meeting Link. The committee will discuss planning applications.

This week in Barnet:

Council Eyes 600 New Affordable Homes Amidst Housing Crisis

Barnet Council is taking a significant step towards alleviating the borough's housing shortage by approving an outline business case to acquire up to 600 new affordable homes. This ambitious plan, greenlit by the Cabinet on Monday, 2 February 2026, aims to boost the supply of much-needed housing, reduce reliance on costly temporary accommodation, and provide larger family homes for residents.

The initiative, spearheaded by Opendoor Homes (ODH), Barnet's own housing provider, will be financed through a hybrid model of public and private lending, with a substantial portion reliant on grant funding. The £300 million programme targets 150 homes per year, focusing on a mix of affordable and social rents, with a particular emphasis on larger family units. This move directly addresses the long waiting lists for larger family homes in Barnet, a situation that often forces families out of the borough.

Councillor Ross Houston, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Homes and Regeneration, highlighted the programme's potential to reduce the temporary accommodation pressures and costs that the borough is facing. The council's existing ODH 300 Programme has already demonstrated success, and this expansion aims to build on that foundation. The decision to pursue this acquisition programme is a direct response to the ongoing housing crisis, where the lack of affordable and suitable housing has a profound impact on the stability and well-being of many Barnet residents.

• Cabinet meeting details

Private Sector Landlords Face New Licensing Scheme Consultation

A 12-week public consultation is set to launch on a proposed selective licensing scheme for private rented properties in ten Barnet wards. The Cabinet, on Monday, 2 February 2026, approved the commencement of this consultation, which aims to improve property conditions, raise management standards, and tackle anti-social behaviour within the private rented sector.

The ten wards identified for potential licensing are Burnt Oak, West Hendon, Golders Green, Hendon, Cricklewood, Colindale North, Childs Hill, Friern Barnet, Finchley Church End, and Colindale South. These areas were selected based on evidence demonstrating they meet the criteria for such a scheme, often due to a higher concentration of private rented properties and associated issues.

Councillor Ross Houston, Cabinet Member for Homes and Regeneration, stressed that this scheme is a necessary measure to enforce standards, particularly in light of the new Renters' Rights Act 2025. While the Act introduces significant tenant protections, selective licensing provides a local enforcement mechanism through inspections and potential penalties for non-compliance. This initiative directly impacts landlords and tenants, with the goal of ensuring safer, better-managed homes for residents. The consultation will seek feedback from landlords, tenants, and the wider community to shape the final scheme.

• Cabinet meeting details

Council Tax Relief for Terminally Ill Residents Approved

A compassionate new measure to provide council tax relief for residents with terminal illnesses has been approved by the Cabinet on Monday, 2 February 2026. This significant decision, brought forward following advocacy from Councillor Caroline Stock, will offer much-needed financial support to individuals facing the most challenging of circumstances.

The relief will be available to residents who are liable for council tax and are in receipt of council tax support. This initiative acknowledges the immense financial and emotional strain that a terminal illness can place on individuals and their families. By easing the burden of council tax payments, the council aims to provide comfort and dignity during a difficult period. This policy change directly benefits vulnerable residents, ensuring they are not unduly burdened by financial obligations while dealing with serious health issues.

In addition to this, the Cabinet also approved amendments to Barnet's Discretionary Rate Relief and Hardship Relief Policy. These amendments incorporate the government's Supporting Small Business Relief 2026 (SSB 2026), designed to support businesses facing loss of relief following the implementation of the new rating list. The policy will also be updated to include provisions for pub relief once full government guidance is issued.

• Cabinet meeting details

Other Matters

• The Cabinet approved the Annual Equalities Report, highlighting the council's commitment to tackling inequalities and advancing equality of opportunity across its services.
• A Q3 financial forecast presented to the Cabinet indicated a projected balanced position for the year-end, with improved contingency use and savings achieved.
• Plans for the redevelopment of Stanhope House and Holmsdale House on the Coppies Grove Estate were approved by the Cabinet, alongside the disposal of the Moss Hall Grove site.
• An update report on the Brent Cross Cricklewood Regeneration Programme was noted by the Cabinet, detailing significant progress on new homes, infrastructure, and upcoming development phases.
• A deed of variation for the Geron Way Replacement Waste Transfer Station was approved by the Cabinet, allowing for continued negotiations on related matters.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a summary of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• Local Pension Board on Tuesday 03 February 2026 - Meeting Link. The board will review the performance of the West Yorkshire Pension Fund, discuss data improvement plans, and consider updates on government consultations affecting the Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Licensing Sub-Committee on Wednesday 04 February 2026 - Meeting Link. The sub-committee will review the procedure for licensing hearings and consider a new premises licence application for S&M Local Off Licence.
• Licensing Sub-Committee on Wednesday 04 February 2026 - Meeting Link. The sub-committee will consider a new premises licence application for Urban Leisure (BX) Limited at Brent Cross Town.
• Governance, Audit, Risk Management and Standards Committee (GARMS) on Thursday 05 February 2026 - Meeting Link. The committee will review financial reports, risk registers, and audit findings.
• Employment Sub-Committee on Thursday 12 February 2026 - Meeting Link. The sub-committee will discuss employment-related matters.
• Adults and Health Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee on Wednesday 11 February 2026 - Meeting Link. The sub-committee will review reports related to adult social care and public health.