Our growth strategy: Centre of the borough

Character

The centre of the borough is characterised by a significant number of public open spaces and areas of significance for biodiversity alongside ancient woodland. These act as an escape from urban living in London and form a key part of Barnet’s suburban identity.

It is also home to many local and regional sports clubs, together with Saracens RFC.

Accessibility and connectivity are the greatest challenges with limited public transport infrastructure and open spaces that are not accessible to all.

Growth

We want to build on these strengths and mitigate the weaknesses, enabling Barnet’s green heart to become a recognised destination for leisure and the enjoyment of the outdoors.

We want to build an environment that is family friendly and where residents can stay active and healthy, as well as supporting job creation in health, leisure and wellbeing sectors.

Maximising the potential of this part of the borough will require 2 key changes:

• improved transport will enhance accessibility across and to the area, particularly to improve public transport, walking and cycling links to existing destinations such as Barnet Hospital and Middlesex University
• secure major investment in leisure and wellbeing destinations such as Copthall Sports Hub and Barnet Sports Hub that'll improve formal sports facilities alongside regional investment for Allianz Park Stadium

Our priorities for growth in the centre of the borough

Explore the opportunity for a regional park

Consider the steps and actions required to explore the opportunity for a regional park.

Deliver Dollis Valley regeneration scheme

Continue to deliver Dollis Valley regeneration scheme alongside an improved local health and wellbeing offer through a new sports hub at Barnet Playing Fields.

Continued housing at Mill Hill East

Continued suburban housing delivery around Mill Hill East with appropriate expansions to accommodate new sites that respect the local character.

Investment in orbital transport

Invest in orbital transport to provide a reliable and fast east to west connection across the borough, alongside wider bus improvements to improve connectivity across the area and to key destinations such as Copthall Sports Hub.

Deliver step free access

Deliver step free access and improved transport interchanges at key east to west stations, including at Mill Hill East station and Mill Hill Broadway station.