Barnet Council's Cabinet has agreed to review its licensing scheme for parklets, a decision prompted by a petition requesting the removal of one on Brent Street, Hendon. The current licence for the parklet in question will be allowed to expire on January 31, 2027, with the option for the business to renew under a new, borough-wide licensing framework.
Councillor Alex Prager presented the petition, citing resident opposition, increased parking demand due to new developments, and the parklet's perceived lack of use as reasons for its removal. While some councillors acknowledged parking concerns, others noted low anti-social behaviour reports associated with the parklet.
Councillor Prager elaborated on the parking pressures, pointing to the upper lower Foster's development, which is essentially completed now.
He stated this development has created huge demands already, even with the bills that have started having people living in them on the local, on the amount of parking base.
He further explained that the upper lower Foster's has built 250 additional units without any parking facility allowed at all, no Controlled Parking Zone allowed for those new residents.
The perceived lack of use of the parklet was based on Councillor Prager's personal observation. I walk past that parklet twice a day. I can't remember the last time I've seen someone sitting in there. It's always empty,
he said. He also noted that the restaurant operating the parklet also obtained a licence for pavement dining, which he felt doubled up on the need for the parklet itself.
However, meeting minutes indicate that the parklet is generally well used with tables and seats well maintained
and is being used in a way that is consistent with the council's policy framework.
The review of the parklet policy will occur when the new licensing scheme is implemented.
The new licensing scheme, which will apply across the borough, will introduce new charges to cover the council's costs for inspection, maintenance, and potential removal. Businesses will be required to maintain, plant, and actively utilize the parklets. They will also need to contribute towards the annual structural survey costs necessary for each parklet's continued operation.
The exact terms and conditions for renewal will be finalized by officers from the licensing, highways, and legal teams, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change. Businesses wishing to renew their licence after January 31, 2027, will do so under these new terms.
The council's policy aims to balance the interests of residents and local businesses. Councillor Barry Rawlings stated, We also listen to businesses and we're keen to have successful and thriving town centres... But I'd certainly, you know, I don't disagree with that at all, but I do believe that it's within the Cabinet's remit to decide today whether you want to proceed with renewing that contract come January or not, rather than just once again pushing it to another committee in another three, four months' time.
He acknowledged residents' concerns, stating, I certainly recognise the issue that the residents are raised, which is, you know, say common in, in lots of other places. But that's what we're, you know, that's what we're balancing up the, you know, the interests of residents and the interests of local businesses and the people who use those businesses.
The finalization of the updated policy, terms and conditions, and application guidance will be delegated to chief officers, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change. This process ensures a comprehensive approach to parklet management across Barnet.
Further details on the parklet policy can be found in the Public reports pack 15th-Sep-2026 19.00 Cabinet and the Minutes of the Previous Meeting.