Barnet Council has defended its ownership of ten golf courses – the highest in the country.

Research by the Taxpayers’ Alliance shows that the council also owns 67 car parks, the second highest number in London, as well as three farms and two theatres.

The council is also one of nine authorities in the capital to own shopping centres, holding a freehold interest in Brent Cross Shopping Centre and The Spires.

Jonathan Isaby, chief executive of the Taxpayers’ Alliance, said: "It beggars belief that in a borough desperately short of housing that the council has so much land at its disposal.

“Developers would pay a pretty penny for that land to build much-needed housing on, benefiting taxpayers with both the significant revenue and with increased housing supply, which would help to bring house prices down."

A spokesman for Barnet Council said: “Barnet, like most councils, has a wide ranging portfolio which is managed carefully and regularly reviewed to provide best value for the taxpayer.

“The council’s golf courses generate an annual income in excess of £200,000. Those situated in the green belt help protect the character of the borough, and because they are leased out and managed by third parties, have no financial liability to the council.”