The Leader of Barnet Borough Council has welcomed the Chancellor of the Exchequer’s backing of two of the borough’s major regeneration projects.

Councillor Richard Cornelius said the authority can “do more” with the added support pledged by George Osborne, who visited Brent Cross Shopping Centre and the Grahame Park estate on Friday.

Under the plans for Brent Cross, 7,500 new homes will be built as well as a new building for three schools and community facilities, pedestrian and cycle bridges, highways and a Thameslink station.

The shopping centre will also be doubled in size, creating up to 6,000 new jobs.

Cllr Cornelius said: “I am very grateful that the Chancellor took the time to visit Barnet and to see how we are delivering the sites. He was very clear that this council and its partners are delivering new housing for Barnet residents and can do more with his support.

“He was fully supportive of the new Thameslink station at Cricklewood and was keen to see the concourse block come down at Grahame Park. With his support we can complete the transformation of the estate.”

The Grahame Park plans will almost double the number of homes to 3,000, and there will also be community facilities, shops and parks on the site.

Peter Cole, Hammerson chief investment officer, said: "Brent Cross Cricklewood is a major regeneration opportunity for London and we are pleased that this is recognised and supported by central government.

“The local area and wider region will see significant benefits from our investment with substantial employment opportunities, improved transport infrastructure, new homes, schools, retail, offices and parks."

Neil Hadden, chief executive of Genesis Housing Group, said: “We were delighted to welcome the Chancellor on site to showcase the transformation that’s already underway at one of the largest housing-led regeneration projects in England thanks to the partnership between Genesis, Barnet Council and Countryside Properties PLC.

“The regeneration funding announced in this year’s budget is a welcome boost which will help to build on the real and lasting change that’s already being delivered at Grahame Park.

“It will significantly speed up the demolition of the central concourse so that we can start building high quality homes that best meet the needs of our residents and add real value to the area.”