Residents have voiced strong concerns over the Underhill South Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) at a Barnet Council meeting, questioning its proportionality and the evidence base used for its implementation. A deputation, represented by Gina Theodora and John Wolfson, argued that the scheme proceeded despite significant opposition, with 61% of residents in the affected roads opposing it. They highlighted that Barnet Council provided no evidence justifying this parking restrictions.
Furthermore, they stated that parking surveys fail to track user types and their duration and timing patterns and because hospital staff permits are non-zonal the council can't prove specific commuter demand in Lunderhill without this data.
The deputation also pointed to low permit uptake and empty bays suggests overestimated demand.
Concerns were also raised about the lack of clear published thresholds for pausing or redesigning schemes based on public rejection. The deputation leader stated that Barnet lacks clear published thresholds for when a scheme should be paused or redesigned based on such definitive rejection.
The justification for the 8 am to 6:30 pm Monday to Saturday restrictions was also questioned, with arguments that they mirror the hospital zone rather than the nearby Chipping Barnet Zone D. The deputation leader mentioned that the small maize lane parade now faces the borough's highest restrictions and tariffs a cashless only system a no free grace period a petition with 1500 barnet signatures testifies to the strength of feeling and strain on these businesses.
Councillor Richard Cornelius echoed these concerns, stating that the parking situation around the hospital is already a mess
and questioning the necessity of the CPZ. Councillor Barnes, representing the neighbouring Barnet Vale ward, inquired about potential modifications to the CPZ to ensure it functions safely and effectively.
Councillor Alan Schneiderman, Cabinet Member for Environment & Climate Change, acknowledged the feedback. He stated that the CPZ is an experimental scheme as everybody knows the consultation is ongoing that period will end on the 15th of June.
A report is to be prepared for a future meeting.
Details of the cashless payment system were mentioned, with the deputation leader noting it is a cashless only system.
However, specific details regarding potential accessibility issues for residents or visitors were not provided.
The meeting took place on Thursday, March 5, 2026. Further information on the council's financial strategies can be found in the Business Planning 2026-2031 Medium Term Financial Strategy March 26 Council.
