Golders Green Town Centre
2017–2019

Client Organisation
London Borough of Barnet (Barnet-Re)

Client Contact
Jamie Robinson, Head of Business Employment & Skills

Date
2017–2019

Fee Value
£50,000

Project Director
Christina Norton

Category
Regeneration | Town Centre Strategy | Consultation

Fluid was appointed in July 2017 to develop a Town Centre Strategy for Golders Green. The strategy was adopted by Barnet Council’s Housing & Growth Committee in January 2020. The strategy provides overarching and practical guidance for the Council, Golders Green Communities and Partners to deliver transformative change to this historic town centre and High Street which has seen decline since the arrival of Bent Cross in the 70’s.

The strategy has been developed through extensive engagement and consultation ensuring the strategy is grounded in the aspirations of local people, key stakeholders, council officers. The aim is to kick start improvements to Golders Green Town Centre, through collective working.

The strategy has been shaped by an understanding of the area’s unique history and current conditions – physically, socially, politically, economically and environmentally. A comprehensive and collaborative engagement process explored the function and experience of the town centre for community groups, local residents and the business community as well as the physical space, and opportunities for public realm improvements and growth that would meet local aspirations. Culminating in a ‘Vision Café’ – a cross-sectional stakeholder group workshop where the overarching ambitions and goals were agreed.

The strategy includes recommendations for creating a cohesive vision for growth including integrating modest development at Golders Green Station Hub and other pockets of development opportunities. Three distinct character areas define future functions and atmospheres of the town centre from ‘Westside’ a more intimate family centred area enhancing its religious and cultural offer and a slower pace; to ‘5 Parades’ a healthy and resilient pedestrian focussed high street attracting people who value quality, independence and creativity within a park like, leisurely and sociable atmosphere and ‘Golders Green Hub’ a welcoming arrival space, with a new town square and meeting space for the whole community, improved bus station with new shops and facilities injecting new life and vitality framed with historic buildings and landmarks.

The draft strategy was consulted on for a period of 6 weeks during September-October 2019 and achieved over 70% local support from those that gave their feedback. Barnet Council’s Growth Strategy has committed funding to begin the transformation of Golders Green and a number of quick wins and meanwhile projects are planned to kick start the regeneration – based on the priorities of the community. A ‘Town Team’, made up of local business, stakeholders and community/resident representatives is envisaged to work with the Council to make this happen. The Council will also work with local landowners to steer change in keeping with the vision