A "momentous" decision has been made to approve the start of a £1.5 billion redevelopment project that will create 2,700 new jobs.

Enfield Borough Council's cabinet approved the first phase of the Meridian Water development this evening.

Members heralded the “momentous” decision, which will create the ‘Meridian Boulevard’ in the Glover Lane area, set to be the backbone of the council’s Meridian Water project in Edmonton.

The boulevard will link the eastern and western parts of the scheme and will create 2,700 new homes as part of the first phase.

The plans also state that the causeway will be completed with segregated routes for cyclists and pedestrians.

Cabinet member for housing Councillor Ahmet Oykener said: “This is an important and momentous moment for Enfield and we are preparing to make the scheme a reality with this first phase.

“Cabinet members have been working together to forge ahead with this landmark scheme and it is important for this council that we address the housing crisis with the first phase.”

Cllr Robert Hayward, shadow cabinet member for regeneration, supported the vote.

He told the cabinet: “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for this council and I would like to ask that family accommodation is a big part of Meridian Water.”

Meridian Water will create up to 8,420 new homes, 3,000 new jobs, public transport links and infrastructure including schools, shops and a police station.

Construction work on the first phase will start in April next year.