Recent emergency events
Recent emergencies in Barnet and the council’s response
In a borough the size of Barnet, it pays to be prepared for any number of potential emergency situations. Even since July 2005, the council has had to tackle floods, a derailed train, and large-scale power failures as well as the evacuation of an estate as part of the police investigation into the July 7 terror attacks in central London.
The council has an emergency planning project team which includes an incident co-ordinator and representatives from associated council departments including health and safety, asset management, communications and property services.
On the occasions when the team has been called into action, it has responded promptly and ensured the minimum of disruption to staff, service users and the general public. Whether it has meant evacuating residents or simply redirecting staff to work at different offices, the council’s contingency plans have been tried and tested successfully. Comprehensive debriefs after each incident also look at ways the response could be improved and made even more efficient.
Recent incidents
- July 2005 – Strawberry Vale estate, Finchley, cordoned off and residents evacuated as part of investigations into July 7 bombings
- September 2005 – Power failure at North London Business Park, New Southgate, hundreds of staff redeployed
- January 2006 – Train derailment in Cricklewood. Residents evacuated from neighbouring flats
- February 2006 – Flood in Golders Green, forcing evacuation of neighbouring residents
- March 2006 – Flood and power failure at Barnet House, Whetstone. 800 staff redeployed for two days
