The Council of Barnet Council convened on Thursday, 5th March 2026, to discuss and approve the borough's budget for the upcoming financial year, alongside other key council matters. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Medium Term Financial Strategy and the 2026/27 budget, which saw a recorded vote on the Conservative Group's amendment. The council also addressed deputations regarding the Underhill South CPZ and the Dollis Valley Regeneration project, approved the Pay Policy Statement, and made decisions on council rents, service charges, and member allowances.

Underhill South CPZ Concerns Raised

Residents voiced strong opposition to the Underhill South Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ), citing a lack of evidence-based justification and overwhelming local opposition. Gina Theodora and John Wolfson presented their case, highlighting that 61% of residents in the affected roads opposed the CPZ, with only 35% in favour. They argued that the restrictions, mirroring those of a nearby hospital zone rather than the Chipping Barnet Zone D, were arbitrary and disproportionate, failing to consider local specifics like hospital proximity and school patterns. Concerns were also raised about the impact on local businesses, with the Maize Lane parade facing the borough's highest restrictions and tariffs. Councillor Richard Cornelius echoed these concerns, questioning the necessity of the CPZ and suggesting further consultation. Councillor Barnes inquired about potential modifications short of complete removal. In response, Councillor Alan Schneiderman proposed that officers prepare a report for a future meeting to further review the scheme, which was agreed by the council.

Dollis Valley Regeneration Concerns

Residents of Dollis Valley phases one to three presented concerns regarding proposed changes to phases four and five, which would alter the agreed mixed tenure of 60% private and 40% affordable housing to 100% social rent. Charlotte and Janeel Patel argued this change, primarily benefiting developer Vistry, would dismantle the existing community balance and potentially lead to misrepresentation claims for homeowners who bought based on the original agreement. They highlighted a lack of transparency, consultation, and consideration for residents, as well as potential negative impacts on mortgageability and saleability of private homes. Councillor Zahra Beg acknowledged the residents' views and the change in plan, while Councillor Peter Zinkin questioned the impact on property values and mortgage availability. Councillor Ross Houston proposed that officers prepare a report for a future meeting and provide a written response to the deputation, which was agreed.

Budget and Financial Strategy Approved

The council debated and ultimately approved the Labour administration's budget for 2026-2031, including the Medium Term Financial Strategy and the 2026/27 budget. The debate was marked by strong exchanges between the Labour and Conservative groups regarding the borough's financial health. Councillor Barry Rawlings, Leader of the Council, presented the budget, highlighting achievements such as pothole repairs, playground upgrades, and tree planting, while emphasizing efforts to strengthen financial resilience. Councillor Simon Radford, Cabinet Member for Financial Sustainability, detailed the complexities of managing demand pressures and the administration's focus on prediction, prevention, and productivity.

The Conservative Group, led by Councillor Peter Zinkin, presented an alternative view, warning of a significant deficit and a potential £750 million black hole over five years. They criticized the administration's reliance on borrowing and argued for a more prudent approach, including potential council tax increases. Councillor Richard Cornelius echoed these sentiments, accusing the Labour administration of financial mismanagement.

Despite the opposition's concerns, the Labour budget was approved with 35 votes in favour, 16 abstentions, and 2 against. The council also voted to approve the Pay Policy Statement for 2026/27, annual reviews of council dwelling rents and service charges, and temporary accommodation rents.

Mayoralty and Member Allowances

Councillor Edith David was approved as the Mayor-Designate for the municipal year 2026-2027, nominated by Councillor Phil Cohen and seconded by Councillor Simon Radford. Councillor Lachhya Bahadur Gurung was nominated by Councillor Sarah Wardle and seconded by Councillor Humayune Khalick as the Conservative nominee for Mayor-Designate. Following a vote, Councillor David was duly approved. Councillor Humayune Khalick was nominated as Deputy Mayor-Designate.

The council also approved the Member Allowances Scheme for 2026-27, following recommendations from the Independent Panel on the Remuneration of Councillors in London.

Constitution Updates and Administrative Matters

Amendments to the council's Constitution were approved, including updates to the Access to Information Procedure Rules, Petition Scheme, Land and Property Transactions Authorisation, and HR Regulations. Councillor Rishikesh Chakraborty was appointed as a substitute member of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee. The extension of the appointment of the Chair of the Barnet Group Board was also approved.

Tributes and Votes of Thanks

The meeting began with official announcements, including the winners of the Laurency twin town photographic competition. Tributes were paid to former Councillor Jim Tierney and the mother of Councillor Kath McGuirk. A resolution of appreciation was passed for the outgoing Mayor, Councillor Danny Rich, and a vote of thanks was given to all councillors not standing for re-election. Several councillors, including Councillor Paul Edwards, Councillor Arjun Mittra, Councillor Ella Rose, and Councillor Peter Zinkin, gave speeches reflecting on their service.