Houses once occupied by squatters are being demolished and will be replaced by new homes.

Coming down: Workmen demolish one of the houses in Donnington Bridge Road used by squatters

Oxford city councillor Bill Baker said he was delighted that, after squatters moved out of 52-54 Donnington Bridge Road, progress was being made on the site.

Cllr Baker, who represents South ward, said that the housing department had linked up with a housing association to build two three-bedroomed homes.

He added: "The squatters were there for quite a few months but they recently moved out following a court order.

"I am pleased that, following demolition, affordable housing will be built for decent working-class families who need somewhere to live.

"The squatters took the view that because these homes were not being filled by tenants then they should be allowed to squat there.

"Some people agreed with that logic but we shouldn't do anything to encourage them to squat in houses that we are doing up.

"We will have to make sure that they don't try to move back in."

Mr Baker said he was especially pleased that the homes were being rebuilt because he and his family lived at Number 66 Donnington Bridge Road for more than 27 years.