The Strategic Planning Committee of Barnet Council met on Wednesday 13 March 2024 to discuss two major planning applications. The committee approved the development of the former British Gas Works site in Albert Road, New Barnet, and also approved the development at Whalebones, Wood Street, High Barnet.

Land Formerly Known As British Gas Works, Albert Road, Barnet

The committee approved the application for the construction of a residential-led, mixed-use development at the former British Gas Works site in Albert Road, New Barnet. The development will provide 420 residential units and commercial space across 11 buildings, ranging from 4 to 8 storeys in height. The approval was granted subject to a Section 106 agreement and conditions, including those related to daylight access and an energy strategy. The application was also referred to the Mayor of London due to its strategic importance.

The decision to approve was made with 5 votes in favour, 3 against, and 1 abstention. A motion to refuse the application based on its size, mass, bulk, and density, moved by Councillor Eva Greenspan and seconded by Councillor Richard Cornelius, was defeated with 3 votes for refusal and 5 against.

Whalebones, Wood Street, High Barnet

The committee also approved the application for the demolition of non-listed structures and the construction of a single-storey studio building and 115 residential houses and apartments at Whalebones, Wood Street, High Barnet. The development will range from 2 to 5 storeys in height and will include associated parking, landscaping, public open space, and play areas. The approval is subject to a Section 106 agreement and conditions. An informative was added to the decision notice, stating the committee's desire for public access to the greenspace in perpetuity, with community involvement in its management. The application was also referred to the Mayor of London.

The decision to approve was made with 5 votes in favour, 3 against, and 0 abstentions. Councillor Nigel Young, Chair of the committee, put forward the informative regarding public access, which was seconded by Councillor Richard Cornelius and agreed with 6 votes for and 2 abstentions.

The meeting concluded at 8:50 pm.