Barnet Council Urges Mayor to Amend Draft London Plan

Barnet Council has formally urged Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan to amend his draft London Plan, stating that key elements of the proposals raise significant concerns for the borough. The council's cabinet agreed on Monday, 14th, to formally submit its response to the draft strategy.

While supporting the mayor's overall objective of delivering sustainable growth and addressing London's housing needs, Barnet Council's primary concern is the new housing target set for the borough. The council also expressed reservations about the draft plan's reliance on releasing Green Belt land, its assessment of infrastructure capacity, and its approach to delivering affordable housing.

Green Belt Policy Under Scrutiny

Proposed changes to Green Belt development policies have been a consistent point of contention for the local authority. The draft London Plan suggests that developments on Green Belt land could be permissible if they meet specific 'sustainable location tests'. This includes allowing for 'residential-led' schemes if a substantial proportion of new homes are situated within 400 metres of an eligible bus route or 1.2 kilometres from designated railway stations.

Barnet itself has been identified as an area with several 'well-connected train stations' located near potential growth locations that encompass Green Belt land. The council had previously indicated that the mayor may not have the authority to directly alter the borough's Green Belt as part of the London Plan.

Next Steps for the Response

The council's official response, which is the result of work between officers and councillors, will be sent to the Greater London Authority by Friday, 23rd. The covering letter accompanying the response states that the council supports the objective of sustainable growth across London but highlights areas where the draft plan requires further refinement, particularly concerning the evidence base for housing delivery, infrastructure provision, and the proposed approach to Green Belt release.