Barnet Council
Barnet Council is grappling with rising strategic risks and financial pressures, alongside housing and public realm developments.
Barnet Council is grappling with rising strategic risks, with financial sustainability identified as its highest risk, and a forecast £2.6 million overspend for the first quarter of 2026/27, a report to the Cabinet said in September 2026. The Governance, Audit, Risk Management and Standards Committee heard in September 2026 that only 55% of high-priority audit recommendations were implemented in Q1 2026/27, falling short of the 90% target. The council is also seeking an independent member for this committee.
In August 2026, a deal for the council to acquire 208 affordable homes for the Dollis Valley Estate Regeneration scheme collapsed after the Greater London Authority withdrew its funding. Separately, the Planning Committee approved several applications for new flats in September 2026, including additional storeys at Gloucester House and a mansard roof extension at Raymond Court. The Adults and Health Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee also decided in September 2026 to investigate individuals living in tents within the borough.
The council's Cabinet adopted new national standards for Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) in September 2026 to enhance flood risk management. The Cabinet also agreed in September 2026 to review its parklet licensing scheme following a resident petition, with the current Brent Street parklet licence expiring in January 2027. Haringey Council will access Barnet Council's multi-supplier Internal Audit and Advisory Services framework from October 2026.
Key facts
- Barnet Council's strategic risks increased from 27 to 30 in Q1 2026/27. Source
- Only 55% of high-priority audit actions were implemented in Q1 2026/27. Source
- Barnet Council is forecasting a £2.6 million overspend for Q1 2026/27. Source
- The council's Cabinet approved £750,000 for community projects in September 2026. Source
- A deal to acquire 208 affordable homes for the Dollis Valley Estate Regeneration scheme collapsed in August 2026. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.