Vote Liberal Democrat – High Barnet

29th May 2026

The decision has been made.
We're not done.

On Wednesday, the Mayor of London approved the application to build 450 flats in 11-storey tower blocks on the car park at High Barnet tube station.

The decision was disappointing, not least because the case made by local representatives from the Barnet Society and the Barnet Residents Association on behalf of residents was detailed, well-evidenced and largely passed over without the serious engagement it deserved. We said we would fight this — and we did. Andrew's letter to the Deputy Mayor set out in full why approving this application risked judicial review; you can read it here. Over 350 objections were registered; you can see them here.

We do not have the personal resources to pursue a judicial review application, but would be interested to hear from any pro bono lawyers or potential no-win-no-fee litigation funders. In order to challenge the decision, a letter before claim must be submitted within three weeks of the decision date, giving a deadline of 17th June.

What comes next is less certain, but representing residents' interests in High Barnet remains firmly on our agenda as the development moves forward. We will keep in touch and share updates here.

Thank you for your time and your passion for our town.

Andrew & Grant

Andrew Jackson

Liberal Democrat Candidate

I've lived and worked in High Barnet since 2011. I am committed to preserving the character of our town and ensuring that all development represents positive change for our community.

Meet Andrew

Grant McKenna

Liberal Democrat Candidate

I moved to High Barnet in 2012. I am enthusiastic about development that complements the area and benefits local residents and am a huge advocate of bringing Barnet Football Club back.

Meet Grant

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Andrew Jackson and Grant McKenna the right choice for High Barnet compared to candidates from larger parties?

Andrew and Grant are focused first and foremost on High Barnet. Both Andrew and Grant live locally in EN5, with Andrew on Wentworth Road, in the heart of the High Barnet ward and Grant very nearby in Fitzjohn Avenue (and formerly Falkland Road). Both are committed to representing the area as residents, not just party representatives. They also bring relevant, practical experience. Andrew is a solicitor and is keen to use his knowledge of the law to help protect residents' interests, particularly on planning and local decisions. Grant's role as part of the Governing Body at Queen Elizabeth's Girls' School means he is used to navigating complex discussions and making sensible, responsible use of public funds. In a crowded field, larger parties often focus on national politics. Andrew and Grant are standing to provide something different: councillors who are visible, accessible and focused on the day-to-day issues that affect people here.

How will they make sure High Barnet's local issues like planning, street maintenance and local services are properly addressed?

By being proactive, informed and persistent. That means staying on top of local issues, working closely with residents and holding the council to account where things aren't working. Andrew's legal background will help him to scrutinise decisions and challenge them where necessary, while Grant's experience in governance brings a strong understanding of how to make decisions that are fair, balanced and financially responsible. It also means focusing on practical improvements: better communication, quicker responses and making sure High Barnet gets its fair share of attention and resources.

With so many candidates standing, how can voters be confident that a vote for them will have real impact?

High Barnet is electing two councillors, and in a split field every vote genuinely counts. Votes for Andrew and Grant are votes for councillors who will prioritise local issues and represent residents independently, rather than simply following a national party line. In a close contest, that kind of focused representation can make a real difference. Just as importantly, they are committed to being accountable. They are committing to writing regularly to every household in High Barnet, explaining what they've done, what they haven't done (and why) and what they are focusing on next — with clear contact details so residents can raise issues and ideas.

How will they balance focusing on local priorities with the wider political issues affecting Barnet and London?

The priority will always be High Barnet — its streets, services and community. At the same time, council decisions are influenced by wider policies, so it's important to stay informed and challenge decisions where they don't work for local residents. Andrew's legal expertise and Grant's governance experience both support a measured, informed approach to these issues. The focus will always be on what decisions mean in practice for people living here.

What experience or local knowledge do they bring that will help them represent residents effectively on Barnet Council?

Both Andrew and Grant's local roots as longstanding EN5 residents bring direct understanding of the area and its day-to-day challenges and opportunities. As a solicitor, Andrew also brings the ability to carefully scrutinise decisions and stand up for residents where needed. Grant's role on the Governing Body at Queen Elizabeth's Girls' School reflects his experience in handling complex issues, working collaboratively, and ensuring public funds are used responsibly. Together, they are committed to being approachable, responsive and accountable, including regularly updating residents on their work and making themselves available for questions, ideas, and concerns. Accountability and availability are central to how they want to represent High Barnet.