Derelict buildings bought as part of a road improvement scheme more than 20 years ago are set to be demolished.

The empty properties in Brentmead Place near the A406 North Circular Road junction with Golders Green Road and Brent Street were inherited by Transport for London (TfL) in July 2000.

The buildings had orginally been acquired under compulsory purchase orders by TfL's predecessor organisation, the Highways Agency, as part of its proposed highway junction improvement scheme.

TfL approved the demolition of the properties in March 2014, and is currently working with Barnet Borough Council on demolition.

People living near Brentmead Place and members of Beis Hamedrah Ohr Chodosh synagogue in Brentmead Close have welcomed the arrival of diggers on site.

Sandra Samuels, who lives in the area, said: "It's the biggest relief to see them go, it's made all the work and effort worthwhile."

Councillor Dean Cohen, chairman of the environment committee, said: "These buildings have been a local eyesore for some time and when I became councillor I vowed I would help get them demolished.

"Over recent months we have been in detailed talks with TfL to bring about a resolution and I am sure local residents are as delighted as I am to see them flattened."

TfL is currently considering what to use the land for in the long term.