The Environment Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee met on Wednesday 2 September 2026 to discuss a range of environmental issues, including the growing problem of abandoned dockless e-bikes and the adoption of new national standards for sustainable drainage systems. The committee made recommendations to Cabinet regarding a hybrid approach to managing dockless bikes and endorsed the adoption of the new Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) standards.

Dockless Bikes

The committee discussed the increasing issue of abandoned dockless e-bikes across the borough, which are causing obstructions and frustration for residents. While acknowledging that a pan-London scheme is planned for 2028, the committee urged Cabinet to adopt a hybrid approach in the interim. This approach includes:

• Using statutory powers to confiscate abandoned dockless bikes and charge owners a retrieval fee.
• Exploring Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with e-bike providers to establish acceptable behaviours and procedures.
• Trialling designated parking bays for dockless bikes in key locations such as transport hubs and high footfall areas.
• Revising these measures once the pan-London arrangement is negotiated.
• Continuing to work with London Councils and regulatory bodies to influence the development of the pan-London agreement and ensure Barnet residents' best interests are represented.

Officers noted that there is currently limited data on the scale of the problem, with only 24 reported cases of obstruction between 2022 and 2026, primarily in areas bordering inner London boroughs. The council currently has no formal agreements with e-bike operators, and while providers are responsible for collecting their bikes, the council can report abandoned ones. The committee also discussed the potential for enforcement, including confiscation and fines, and the need to establish a clear position on which legal powers to use.

Sustainable Drainage Strategy (SuDS)

The committee considered the draft Cabinet report on the adoption of the new 2025 National Standards for Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS). As the Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA), Barnet Council is responsible for ensuring new developments manage surface water runoff effectively. The adoption of these new national standards, published by Defra, will formalise the council's existing best practice in this area and strengthen its position in requiring developers to adhere to sustainable urban design principles.

Councillor Charli Thompson raised concerns about the impact of heatwaves and the need for a robust climate adaptation strategy, including heat resilience and cool spaces. She also enquired about the council's protocols for outdoor workers during extreme heat and the monitoring of mature tree loss. The Executive Director for Environment committed to providing further data and updates on these matters.

Councillor Josh Tapper asked about the publication of updated guidance for developers, and Ms Ruchi Sayal, Senior Flood Risk Manager, confirmed that the council's website would be updated with the new standards following Cabinet approval. The committee noted the report and provided comments for Cabinet.

Task and Finish Group Updates

The committee was updated on the progress of various Task and Finish Groups. A new group focusing on Flats and Flats Above Shops Waste and Recycling will commence its work, with its scope endorsed by the committee. The committee also noted that a Task and Finish Group on Controlled Parking Zones (CPZs) would be established.

Cabinet Forward Plan

The committee reviewed the Cabinet Forward Plan for 2026-27 and noted the items listed.

Environment Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee Work Programme

The Executive Director for Environment agreed to discuss the work programme with officers following the meeting to manage the number of items scheduled.