Barnet Council faces scrutiny over parking zone plans

Barnet Council's approach to controlled parking zones (CPZs) has drawn criticism from the opposition. Peter Zinkin, leader of the Conservative group, has voiced concerns that the council might not adequately consider negative public feedback regarding the experimental Underhill CPZ. The statutory six-month consultation period for this scheme concluded on June 14th.

Concerns over consultation process

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At a recent cabinet meeting, Councillor Zinkin urged the Labour administration to reflect on its current parking policies. He suggested that if residents' concerns are largely overlooked, the council would be perceived as merely going through the motions of consultation. While acknowledging the potential necessity of CPZs, Zinkin stressed the importance of transparency regarding how resident feedback is weighed. He stated that the current methods risk making residents feel unheard, even if valid reasons exist for council decisions.

“I do think that we need to reflect on what on earth we’re doing with CPZs.”

Peter Zinkin, Opposition Leader

Responding to these points, Alan Schneiderman, cabinet member for environment and climate change, highlighted the council's history of acting on resident input, citing the recent review of CPZ hours on Mays Lane following a petition. Schneiderman clarified that public consultations are not equivalent to referendums, allowing the council to make alternative choices if necessary. Craig Miller, executive director for environment, acknowledged the complexity of parking policy decisions and the difficulty in satisfying all parties.

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Next steps for Underhill CPZ

The council is now evaluating the options for the Underhill CPZ following the consultation's conclusion. These options include making the current experimental arrangement permanent, initiating a new experimental process, or removing the parking controls entirely. Councillor Schneiderman indicated that all gathered data and public responses will be analysed before a decision is made by the end of December. This follows a deputation in March from the Underhill Residents Group and local resident Gina Theodorou. Council leader Barry Rawlings has publicly promised to provide Theodorou with further written answers and to meet with her to discuss the details.