Planning permission for a revamped Brent Cross shopping centre has been approved.

The centre, in Princes Charles Drive, Hendon, will be doubled in size, creating new 27,000 jobs as part of the Brent Cross Regeneration Scheme. 

Developer Hammerson and Standard Life Investments hopes the centre will become the “best in Europe”.

Earlier this year many expressed fierce opposition to the plans over claims the lack of transport links make it the “wrong place” for a huge mall.

However, Brent Cross Bus Station is due to be doubled in size and a new 'living bridge', a dual pedestrian and cycle crossing over the North Circular Road, will also be built.

A new overground station in Brent Cross will give a 12-minute fast link to London Kings Cross.

The plans, which were officially given the green light today, will also see 7,500 new homes as well as a £250m investment in roads.

Leader of the council, Richard Cornelius, said: “It is very difficult to overstate the importance of this redevelopment to Barnet.

“The council is committed to playing an active role in the development of the south side of the site to get the best financial deal for the taxpayer and to play our part in creating a thriving London neighbourhood.”