The West Area Committee of Barnet Council convened on Monday, 10 June 2024, to discuss various funding applications and updates related to the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) and Road Safety and Parking (RSP) Fund. Key decisions included the approval of funding for community safety in Watling Park, biodiversity efforts on Brockley Avenue, and redevelopment projects for the Phoenix Canoe Club.

Area Committee Funding - Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Road Safety & Parking Fund Update

The Committee reviewed the funding update for the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and Road Safety and Parking (RSP) Fund. The available CIL funding for 2023/24 was noted, along with re-allocated underspends and overspends. The Committee also acknowledged the RSP Fund available for allocation during the same period.

Watling Park – Councillor Sara Conway

Councillor Sara Conway presented a funding application for community safety improvements in Watling Park. The Committee discussed the proposal and unanimously approved the application, awarding full funding of £115,000. This decision was made to enhance safety measures within the park, aligning with the council's commitment to community welfare.

Brockley Avenue Hedge – Councillor Lucy Wakeley

Councillor Lucy Wakeley proposed a project to plant vegetation along Brockley Avenue to promote biodiversity and mitigate noise pollution. The Committee unanimously approved the application, granting full funding of £1,740. This initiative supports the council's environmental sustainability goals and aims to improve the quality of life for local residents.

Phoenix Canoe Club – Councillor Ernest Ambe

Phil Atkinson, Director of the Phoenix Canoe Club, and Councillor Ernest Ambe presented a redevelopment project for the club, which is integral to the wider West Hendon Playing Fields project. The Committee discussed the benefits of the application, including its potential to attract visitors and enhance the local area. The application was unanimously approved, with full funding of £150,000 awarded, contingent on the completion of due diligence to ensure alignment with council policy.

Councillor Andrea Bilbow and the Chair highlighted the club's importance and its positive impact on the community, noting that it would help put Welsh Harp on the map.

Issues Related to Colindeep Lane and Grove Gardens

The Committee noted that the issue concerning Colindeep Lane and Grove Gardens was being addressed by Highways as part of the Member Road Safety & Parking application submitted by Councillor Chakraborty. No committee decision was required at this stage.

Future Applications

The Chair reminded members to work on future applications early to allow officers to complete due diligence in advance of committee meetings. The available budget for 2024/2025 was noted to be £810,000.