Not much has been happening here as we wait for the next update of the plans and public engagement event. So here is an update on what the planning system is doing in our borough as a whole.  Last month I spoke to strategic planning committee.  Despite a nuanced argument, and answering the committee's questioning, all that was recorded in the minutes is that I spoke in favour of the plans for Hendon library and that 8 voted to approve and 0 against.  The Conservative candidate for parliament then spoke against a similar plan and it was approved with voting taking place on party lines, the chair having the casting vote.

The next strategic planning meeting is this evening.  Once again it will debate the gasworks, a hole in the ground and classic brown field site.  The only other item is the Whalebone farm near the Barnet General Hospital.  Community have organised to protect this green space and Robin Bishop from the influential Barnet Society is down to speak against.  Officials have recommended in favour.  This is generally how planning works; it's semi-judicial which means decisions have to be made in line with planning law - very boring - but also we can vote out the councillors if push comes to shove.  Ideally, according to CPRE in this fascinating report, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ze2hzx3OQY&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cprelondon.org.uk%2F&source_ve_path=MTY0OTksMjg2NjY&feature=emb_logo green defenders: threats to green spaces, you get councillors elected in the first place who are the right people.

Outside of planning: Burnt Oak ward Panel met on Friday.  6 residents attended and the new Sergeant told us his views of the high-rise planned in the car park and scrub land.  If you would like to join the ward panel please get in touch with Gaby Bailey - interim chair.