In July 2023, Labour councillor Chris Myers sent a WhatsApp message to fellow party members urging them to steer clear of a 900‑home planning application in Potters Bar, arguing it would threaten Labour’s control of Hertsmere Council. The advice, seen by the Daily Mail, also suggested the party focus on areas where electoral wins are unlikely.

Chris Myers' July 2023 WhatsApp warning to Labour colleagues

According to the Daily Mail, Myers wrote in a party group chat that the council should "start planning sites where we can’t win seats" and "take the political decision not to go near" the proposed development . He framed the PB3 porject as a strategic risk, implying that supporting it could erode the party’s existing majority.

The 900‑home PB3 development in Potters Bar

The PB3 scheme, slated for the Cowley Hill ward, would add roughly 900 homes to the Potters Bar area. While the council’s planning department has yet to give final approval, the scale of the project has sparked debate over infrastructure capacity, green space loss, and the political calculus of local parties.

Potential loss of Labour control in Hertsmere Council

Myers warned that endorsing the PB3 project could "break their grip on Hertsmere Council," suggesting that the housing plan might swing voter sentiment against Labour in upcoming elections.. As of the latest council composition, Labour holds a narrow majority , making any perceived misstep potentially decisive.

Unclear stnce of Labour group on Cowley Hill ward

The messages also referenced concerns about the Cowley Hill ward, which is represented by three Labour councillors. However, the source does not disclose whether the party’s official position has been formalised, leaving a gap between internal advice and public policy.

Who will decide the fate of the 900‑home scheme?

Key unanswered points include whether Hertsmere Council’s planning committee will vote on the PB3 application, and if the Labour group will adopt Myers’ recommendation publicly. Additionally, the impact on local services and the reaction of residents remain unverified, as the Daily Mail report focuses solely on internal party communications.