URL: https://barnet.moderngov.co.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=9811

Decision Maker: Executive Director Communities, Adults and Health

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: Parks and open spaces are a vital part of life in Barnet. They support health and wellbeing, bring people together, and help protect the environment. As our communities grow, so do the needs and pressures on these spaces, encompassing population growth, climate change, the impact on local wildlife and recreational demands.    To respond to these changes and build on what has already been achieved, a new Parks and Open Spaces Strategy (2026–2036) has been developed. The Strategy sets out a clear vision and actions showing how we aim to care for and invest in our green spaces over the next decade. It will help ensure that our parks continue to meet the needs of residents, now and in the future.    The strategy has been shaped by feedback from residents, community groups, and partners, and reflects both local priorities and national best practice. It is designed to be flexible and deliverable, with a focus on making the most of what we have and working together to protect and enhance Barnet’s green spaces.    Following approval at Cabinet 18 November 2025 of the Draft Strategy 2025-2026, the Draft Strategy was subject to a public consultation that ran from 19 to the 7 January 2026. A total of 142 representations were received. As the consultation is now complete and the new Strategy can be approved the Parks and Open Spaces Strategy dates have been amended to run from 2026-2036 which differs to the dates noted in the Draft Strategy at Cabinet.    Our vision for Barnet over the next ten years is “to provide quality, inclusive and sustainable parks and open spaces that enhance wellbeing, celebrate local identity, enhance biodiversity and empower communities”.      

Content: Parks and open spaces are a vital part of life in Barnet. They support health and wellbeing, bring people together, and help protect the environment. As our communities grow, so do the needs and pressures on these spaces, encompassing population growth, climate change, the impact on local wildlife and recreational demands.    To respond to these changes and build on what has already been achieved, a new Parks and Open Spaces Strategy (2026–2036) has been developed. The Strategy sets out a clear vision and actions showing how we aim to care for and invest in our green spaces over the next decade. It will help ensure that our parks continue to meet the needs of residents, now and in the future.    The strategy has been shaped by feedback from residents, community groups, and partners, and reflects both local priorities and national best practice. It is designed to be flexible and deliverable, with a focus on making the most of what we have and working together to protect and enhance Barnet’s green spaces.    Following approval at Cabinet 18 November 2025 of the Draft Strategy 2025-2026, the Draft Strategy was subject to a public consultation that ran from 19 to the 7 January 2026. A total of 142 representations were received. As the consultation is now complete and the new Strategy can be approved the Parks and Open Spaces Strategy dates have been amended to run from 2026-2036 which differs to the dates noted in the Draft Strategy at Cabinet.    Our vision for Barnet over the next ten years is “to provide quality, inclusive and sustainable parks and open spaces that enhance wellbeing, celebrate local identity, enhance biodiversity and empower communities”.      

Date of Decision: March 6, 2026