A compulsory purchase order (CPO) to build a new train station as part of a £250million project has been made.

Communities Secretary James Brokenshire has approved the order for the new Brent Cross West Thamleslink Station, as part of the Brent Cross Cricklewood Regeneration Scheme.

But the project is not without its criticisms, and will bring with it a hugely controversial rail freight hub.

Campaigners say there was little consultation about the hub.

Anne Clarke, the chairman of the Cricklewood Groves Residents Association, previously said: "Our community is united against this disastrous plan."

The regeneration project will bring with it 7,500 new homes, offices and an expanded shopping centre at Brent Cross.

The council says it will redesign major road junctions,pedestrian and cycle networks and a new ‘living bridge’ across the A406.

According to the council the programme is expected to create up to 27,000 new jobs in the area.

Leader of Barnet Council, councillor Richard Cornelius, said: “The Secretary of State's decision marks a significant milestone in the Brent Cross Cricklewood regeneration scheme.

“It will bring great benefits to Barnet and also to London.

“This approval will now advance Barnet Council and partners Network Rail to delivering the new Brent Cross West station, which will link residents to Kings Cross St Pancras in 12 minutes.

A Compulsory Purchase Order is a legal function that allows councils to obtain land or property without the consent of the owner – the previous owner is then compensated for the loss.

“A compulsory purchase order is always a last resort.

“We acknowledge those whose properties may fall within the boundary of the development.

“We will continue to work to reach agreement with them, local business and all our partners, to realise the potential of the area and deliver for Barnet.”

The new station will open in 2022.

A temporary application for the rail freight by DB Cargo was deferred in September last year, and a joint application between the company and Barnet Council was put forward and accepted.