Back in 2018 Whalebones Park in High Barnet was chosen as a location for potential redevelopment. There was an instant backlash to the idea, with many questioning the loss of green space. Since then it has been a tricky time for the site. With a decision from the Mayor of London’s office recently, there is finally a clear plan. We want to have a closer look today, then if you need guaranteed rent in Barnet, you can speak to us.

Original proposals

As we said, developers have had their eye on Whalebones Park for a few years now. An initial proposal by Hill Residential to build 152 homes was published in 2020. However, there was a campaign to prevent it. Ultimately, the plan did not get planning permission.

Recent proposals

The developer came back with a new plan for the site in 2023. This proposal was to create 115 homes. Crucially, 35% of them would be affordable. In addition, there would be two hectares of open public space, including meadows and woodland.

Hill Residential had a public exhibition of the proposals in March, getting feedback from locals. Then, they did a planning application in October. The new homes could be an interesting opportunity. This is a popular location and we can arrange guaranteed rent in Barnet for all kinds of homes.

This second proposal got approval from Barnet Council in March 2024. The local planning committee concluded that the redevelopment would be a good use of the site. The Barnet Residents Association also gave their support too, praising the design as one of the “best schemes they had seen”.

However, it wasn’t all rosy. Once again there was opposition. A local residents association did a petition and got 2,000 signatures urging the plan not get planning permission. They had concerns about the harm of building on a piece of the countryside, especially in a conservation area. They said it would cause significant harm to the environment, character of the area, and network of habitats.

The latest decision

Ultimately, the Mayor of London’s office did a review of the proposals. They considered all sides, including the Council’s findings and the concerns of the opposition. They also had an assessment of the plans from the Greater London Authority. Their decision was to agree with the move to grant planning permission.

This means the project can now proceed. We may see work begin on the site in 2025.

Do you want some help with guaranteed rent in Barnet?

Guaranteed Rent has the very best services for clients. We strive to help investors get the most secure income for properties, therefore ensuring no problems with voids. It is a really great solution for anyone with concerns about missing out or financial issues.

So, if you want to learn more, please contact us. We are one of the most successful providers of guaranteed rent in Barnet and other parts of London. We’ll give you the benefit of our knowledge and expertise.