Planning proposals, cracked pavements and crime figures were all hot topics at a Finchley residents’ meeting tonight.

People were invited to have their say on local issues at Dollis Park & District Residents Association’s Annual General Meeting held at the Blue Beetle hall in Hendon Lane.

PC John Kenny kicked off tonight’s discussion with a report on policing in the area.

Referring to crime statistics collected since last September, he said the most widespread crime was theft of motor vehicles, of which there were 11 reported.

There were seven reported burglaries of “non dwellings”, for example businesses and sheds, making it the second highest crime.

PC Kenny said: “The ward priorities will be burglaries and thefts and motor vehicle crime generally. But overall, crime is down on the previous year.”

The packed hall also heard about plans to demolish The Old School House in Victoria Avenue, which was part of the former St Mary’s School complex. If approved by Barnet Borough Council, the land would be used to develop seven new flats.

There were also calls for the council to replace broken pavement slabs across the borough.

More to follow.