Work is starting at the Ilford train depot to turn it into one of the biggest yards for the new Crossrail line.

The ground is being prepared for a paint shop and logistics centre on the west side of the site.

The noisiest work, including breaking stands and concrete slabs, is being undertaken during the day to minimise disruption and hoardings have been put up to contain noise and dust.

Next month, the training centre and stores at the depot will be demolished as the transformation of the site gets underway.

There will be ten new sidings for Crossrail trains as well as staff accommodation and changes to existing facilities.

A small family business at the entrance to the site, in Ley Street, is being demolished to make way for a new staff car park.

Academy Roofing Supplies has been running for 20 years but a Crossrail spokesman said an alternative site would be found.

Ilford is one of five sites along the Crossrail route that will house trains.

The new line is due to open by 2019 and will link Maidenhead and Heathrow in the west to Abbey Wood and Shenfield in the east, through Ilford, Seven Kings, Goodmayes and Chadwell Heath stations.