A Cricklewood mini park is set for a full revamp after work has begun – thanks to campaigning by residents and Labour councillors.

Westcroft Open Space, off Westcroft Close, suffered due to years of deliberate Conservative inaction.

When the Conservatives ran the Council they put the area on a list of co-called ‘low quality/low value’ sites, which were earmarked for intentional neglect.

The result was predictable: a little used and ignored space, where residents worried about anti-social behaviour.

For Barnet Labour, no area that impacts on the residents’ lives should be deliberately ignored. Once Labour took over the council in 2022, the list was abolished.

Westcroft Open Space became eligible for funding and ward Councillor Anne Clarke recently secured £70,000 to make it a true community space.

The revamp will see new shrubs and greenery planted, a new path and support for wildlife like birds and bats. New facilities will include benches and chess tables.

Ward Councillor Anne Clarke said: “When the Tories ran Barnet, their attitude to many wards, like Cricklewood, was on autopilot. The ‘low quality/low value’ list made that autopilot official policy. The Residents of Westcroft Close and Cricklewood paid the price.

“The Labour difference is that we think all parts of the borough are worth considering for investment. I am so glad we abolished the Conservatives ‘not to do list’ and could bring this investment to Westcroft Open Space.

“This has really happened due to the persistence and hard work of local residents, and I cannot thank them enough.

“Soon it should be a local asset that everyone can enjoy.”

Ward Co-Councillor Alan Schneiderman added: it’s great to be able to revitalise a neglected open space that residents will be able to enjoy as well as boosting biodiversity.”