The Naming of Barnet: A Compromise in London Borough Creation
When the new London borough of Barnet was formed in 1965, its name came about through a series of compromises and negotiations. This story is not unique to Barnet, but rather representative of how many new boroughs and cities in London were named. Local authorities in charge of suggesting and agreeing on names often found themselves at odds, leading to compromise solutions that could offend no one. In the case of Barnet, the chosen name reflects a complex balancing act of political preference and historical context.
Historical Context and Formation of Barnet
The new London Borough of Barnet was created as part of the broader London Government Act 1963. This legislation aimed to streamline governance and administrative structures in the rapidly expanding city. It involved the merger of several areas into the new borough, including the Municipal Borough of Finchley, the Municipal Borough of Hendon, the Friern Barnet Urban District of Middlesex, and the East Barnet Urban District and Barnet Urban District of Hertfordshire.
Notably, the creation of the London Borough of Barnet was a landmark in the history of Boroughs in London. Prior to this, each area had its own unique name and character, reflecting its individual history and community identity. However, the Act did not specify a name for the new borough, leaving the decision to a joint committee of the councils that were to be amalgamated.
Compromising in Naming Conventions
In many instances, local authorities tasked with naming new boroughs struggled to reach a consensus. When disagreements arose, compromise names were often chosen to avoid offending any particular area or community. This is a recurring theme in the naming of London Boroughs, as seen with the creation of the London Borough of Hillingdon and the naming of Haringey. These instances highlight the collaborative and sometimes contentious nature of the naming process.
The London Borough of Hillingdon, for instance, includes a small portion of what was previously Hounslow. The name 'Hillingdon' itself was chosen as a compromise, with the aim of satisfying representatives from the larger and more significant areas within the borough. Similarly, Haringey's name was formed by combining 'Harringay' and 'Enfield,' both names of smaller districts within the new borough. This approach ensured that no single area was favored over another, maintaining a sense of balance and fairness.
Why Barnet?
In the case of Barnet, the decision-making process followed a similar pattern but with a crucial difference. Keith Joseph, the Minister of Housing and Local Government at the time, played a significant role in the naming process. The name 'Barnet' was favored by the Housing Minister, suggesting that political influence played a key part in the final decision.
Barnet's name has roots in the Old English language, specifically 'brnet,' which means 'source of water.' This historical reference adds a rich layer of cultural significance to the name. The choice of 'Barnet' as the name for the new borough reflects not only a political compromise but also a nod to the region's history and natural landscape.
Conclusion
The naming of the London Borough of Barnet, like many other boroughs in London, is a testament to the complex interplay of historical, political, and administrative factors. The story of Barnet's naming is part of a broader narrative of how new local governance structures were created in the 20th century. While the choice of 'Barnet' may have been influenced by political preferences, it also carries significance tied to the area's history and geographical features. Understanding these nuances helps illuminate the evolving landscape of London's administrative divisions and the communal identity that accompanies them.