A HUGE makeover of an iconic river walk in Barnet is set to start after grants of more than £700,000 were secured for it.

Workmen will start to renovate the Dollis Valley Green Walk, which runs from Totteridge to Hendon next to Dollis Brook, improving footways and cycle paths along the route.

The bulk of the money for the scheme came from a £400,000 grant from the Mayor of London, with £250,000 was also secured from Transport for London for cycle and footpath improvements.

Barnet council chipped in £50,000 while Walk London donated £30,000 to improve signage along the seven mile walk.

Other aspects of the scheme include improving entrances to the pathways, creating wildflower meadows, and river and pond improvements.

Councillor Brian Coleman, who is responsible for the environment, said: "The Dollis Valley Green Walk is a much loved green space by many of our residents and I am very pleased this grant will help to protect and enhance it for future generations."

Mayor BorisJohnson also endorsed the scheme, which will see a new playground built somewhere along the route.

He added: “"This is great news for Barnet. Dollis Valley Greenwalk will benefit from new meadows and paths and local children will have a gleaming new playground to enjoy.

“I am delighted that local people have been able to have their say on the improvements to their park."

Residents will also have the chance to choose which logo they want to represent the new pathway by visiting http://www.barnet.gov.uk/dollis-valley-green-walk.htm.