Barnet Council Renews Licence for Controversial Hendon Parklet

Barnet Council has decided against removing a parklet situated at 134 Brent Street in Hendon. The council's cabinet renewed the licence for the structure, which is located outside the Pita Street restaurant, during a meeting held on Tuesday. This decision comes despite significant local opposition.

Resident Opposition and Petition

Councillor Alex Prager, ward member for Hendon, presented a petition containing over 500 signatures from local residents who opposed the parklet. Councillor Prager argued that the structure should be removed when its current licence expires at the end of January next year. He stated that the petition, created approximately a year ago, gained substantial support after being shared on social media, with around 95% of signatories residing in the immediate vicinity.

Concerns raised by those opposing the parklet included a perceived increase in demand for parking spaces, partly attributed to nearby residential developments. Councillor Prager also relayed that he had received numerous emails from residents complaining about the parklet, which occupies space equivalent to about three car parking bays. The petition also claimed the area had become a 'magnet for antisocial behaviour', with one complaint detailing women feeling intimidated walking past people gathered at the space.

Council Response and Safety Record

Councillor Sara Conway, the council's cabinet member for community safety, stated that there had been no recorded incidents of antisocial behaviour specifically linked to the parklet. She noted that similar structures had been removed in other parts of Barnet where such behaviour was reported. Councillor Conway encouraged residents to report any concerns they have to the police or the council.

Alan Schneiderman, cabinet member for environment and climate change, described the council's approach to parklets across the borough as pragmatic. Councillor Prager countered that the decision to retain the parklet appeared to disregard the views of over 550 residents in favour of one business. Barry Rawlings, leader of the council, stated that the council and the restaurant had a contract that needed to be honoured, and that the business had followed the rules.

Future Policy Review

Councillor Schneiderman indicated that Barnet Council is planning a review of its overall parklet policy. The outcome of this review may influence whether the Pita Street restaurant chooses to renew its licence for the parklet in the future, depending on the revised terms offered.