Crushers and sledgehammers were brought in to kickstart the demolition of a 41-year-old library in Enfield yesterday.

Ordnance Road Library, which went through a major refurbishment in 2011, will be knocked down to make way for a new centre containing a library, doctors’ and dentists’ surgeries and a community hall.

Enfield Council has been working with the NHS and Enfield Homes to develop the plans.

Councillor Christine Hamilton said: “This is a superb solution to a number of community needs. Local people have experienced difficulties finding doctors and dentists and this facility will answer that need.

“The community hall will provide a central place for people to meet, arrange functions and establish groups for all ages, while the library will be fully equipped with computers and the latest IT, a massive store of books, music and films to borrow.

“It is an exciting time for people living in this part of the borough.”

Further consultations with architects and builders will take place as plans develop.

Tessa Garvan from the NHS, said: “Medical services are vital for communities and this building will help many families who have required this for some time.

“The building will be a central focus and I look forward to promoting good health with the other services in the building.”