PlanningReform

Barnet Council’s rejected High Barnet flats face faster approval under new planning rules

Barnet Council’s December 2025 rejection of 283 flats at High Barnet Underground Station may now be harder to defend under new planning rules. Housing Secretary Angela Rayner’s policy requires councils to approve developments within a 10-minute walk of transport hubs unless strong evidence justifies refusal. The scheme was later approved by City Hall after a mayoral call-in.