Demolition of Gateshead homes halted on judge's orders
The demolition of homes in part of Gateshead has been halted by a court order just days after work began.
Seven years ago hundreds of people in Bensham were told by Gateshead Council their properties were to be demolished.
After numerous delays, work began this week - but earlier it was halted on the order of a judge following a protest by Save Britain's Heritage.
It has accused the authority of a "scandalous waste" of Edwardian-era homes.
The council says it is trying to provide a greater quality of homes.
Save Britain's Heritage said the homes should be refurbished rather than razed.
The order from the High Court forcing a halt to the work has been enforced while the campaign group tries to secure a judicial review of the scheme.
There are people still living in some of the houses.