The Block 2021: Workers start to partially demolish the five homes Nine bought for $11.5million

It was confirmed last week that Nine producers had snapped up five homes in a leafy Melbourne cul-de-sac for $11.5million, in preparation for the upcoming 2021 season. And on Monday, construction began to partially demolish the properties on Bronte Court in Hampton - including one which a concerned neighbour battled to get heritage listed. Blank canvas: On Monday, construction began to partially demolish parts of the five homes Nine snapped up in Bronte Court in Hampton, Melbourne - including one which a concerned neighbour battled to get heritage listed It's sure to cause anger for some, after one neighbour argued that one of the recently-renovated houses - originally designed by architect designed by Neil Clerehan - should be considered as a heritage site. Before: It's sure to cause anger for some, after a neighbour argued that one of the recently-renovated houses - originally designed by architect designed by Neil Clerehan - should be considered for heritage After: The homes were seen with skips in the driveway and rubble throughout the front garden as the changes were made this week Hard at work: Construction staff were spotted transforming the homes into blank canvases for next year's contestants Change: What was once a quiet cul-de-sac turned into a construction site earlier this month, and it's not yet known when the demolitions will be complete No expense spared: In a bid to secure a large-scale site, producers gave residents of Bronte Court in Hampton, Melbourne, generous offers to buy their homes, despite none being for sale Biting back: In light of construction taking place, Julian told the Herald Sun that the Block is a 'renovation show', adding: 'With any renovation or extension, demolition is required' However, in light of construction, Julian told The Herald Sun: 'With any renovation or extension, demolition is required. Pictured: The Block judges Neale Whitaker, Shaynna Blaze and Darren Palmer Unknown: While some of the homes appear to be drastically demolished, others were less affected Nothing wrong: Bayside Council development and city planning manager Matthew Cripps said because none of the properties in Bronte Court are covered by heritage controls, 'there is no planning permit required' Success: In preparation for last year's season in Brighton - a neighbouring suburb to Hampton - producers snapped up a parcel of land from a developer for $14.96million.