A play street in Finchley
Barnet Council is inviting residents to bring their neighbourhoods to life by hosting a one-off play street to celebrate World Car Free Day during the weekend of 20-21 September.
A play street is a resident-led event which gives communities the chance to temporarily close a road to traffic, to create safe, vibrant spaces where children can play freely and neighbours can come together.
Play streets promote active and outdoor play for children and encourage us to socialise with our neighbours.
Following their launch in 2023, Barnet residents can apply for a play street with multiple dates, up to a period of 12 months. To mark World Car Free Day, Barnet Council is offering residents the opportunity to organise a one-off play street before considering regular sessions.
Councillor Alan Schneiderman, Cabinet Member for Environment & Climate Change, said: “It was great when neighbourhoods came to life for the street parties of the Queen’s Jubilee and VE Day. Play streets mean that communities can create space where residents and family can join together as a matter of course.
“They are a fantastic way for us to come together, enjoy cleaner air, and enjoy active lifestyles. They’re a vital part of Barnet’s commitment to becoming one of London’s most sustainable boroughs and achieving net zero emissions by 2042. By reclaiming our streets for play, we are building healthier, greener neighbourhoods for everyone.”
Residents interested in organising a one-off play street simply need to:
- Speak to neighbours to gather support and agree on a play street event.
- Choose a suitable type of road (no bus routes or main roads).
- Submit an application for a one-off play street using our street party application form: Street parties and special events.
If you would like to apply for a play street, please visit: www.barnet.gov.uk/playstreets
The deadline for Car Free Day play street applications is Friday 15 August 2025.
To find out more about the benefits of play streets and how to host an exciting event, visit London Play Streets.