Renewing Barnet’s high streets and public spaces are among the council’s Labour administration’s priorities.
The council’s direction following the recent elections was discussed at a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday 21st July.
Leading councillors agreed to a strategy document that committed to:
“Supporting high streets, town centres, and places where residents feel safe, connected and proud of their local area”
And: “Continuing to improve our public spaces across the borough and campaign for greater powers to tackle harmful outlets such as gambling shops and fast-food restaurants.”
In the previous term from 2022 to 2026, Barnet already introduced a Public Space Protection Order to tackle anti-social behaviour in public spaces and dramatically expanded its CCTV network to 900 camera views and mobile units.
Barnet also joined the campaign for local authorities to have greater powers to say no to new gambling outlets, some of which have now been won.
Council Leader, Labour’s Councillor Barry Rawlings, said: “We are so proud of our 30 high streets in Barnet – each with their individual character and community feel.
“We are looking to protect them from further gambling outlets and fast food shops and bring more street art to them through initiatives like the way lamps project. We are tackling problems like overparking by delivery drivers and bringing down roadworks time through charging utilities companies that over run.
“We know that looking after our high streets is a priority for residents, and it is a priority for us too.”
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