Barnet's mayor was invited to open a new pedestrian bridge as well as mark the progress of the construction of apartments.

Councillor Alison Cornelius visited the Boathouse Apartments at Hendon Waterside, before opening a new bridge in Cool Oak Lane.

She was presented with a ceremonial trowel by developer an tasked to pour concrete on top of the roof of the development as part of a traditional topping out ceremony.

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Cllr Cornelius said: "The Topping Out of the new block at Hendon Waterside is a key milestone in the regeneration of West Hendon. This development is helping to provide much-needed new housing in the centre of the borough which will not only help existing residents, but will also draw new residents and visitors to the area.

"We’re working closely with Barratt London and Metropolitan Thames Valley to ensure that the development adds significant improvement to the area, whilst celebrating and preserving the nearby green space and reservoir."

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A brand-new piazza and Co-op supermarket have also recently opened on site, while the pedestrian bridge over the Welsh Harp Reservoir provides a new route to nearby playing fields and bowling club.

Danny Farenden, Barratt London projects director, said: "Hendon Waterside is playing a huge role in the transformation of Barnet, and we are proud to be at the forefront of this masterplan.

"As the borough continues to evolve to meet its residents' needs, we believe by working in collaboration with the council, we are delivering much-needed high-quality homes, over a thousand new jobs, and opening up vital green space, to help keep the community thriving."

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Lisa Johnston, head of regeneration projects at housing association Metropolitan Thames Valley, added: "It is fantastic to be able to mark this milestone with our partners at Barratt and Barnet and to see the bridge and amenity area already being enjoyed by residents.

"West Hendon is looking great, and we are proud to be working on it."

The West Hendon regeneration involves building just over 2,000 homes, including 543 affordable homes, along with a community centre and improved transport links.

Barnet Council says the scheme will also deliver a three-form entry community school for around 400 pupils and a nursery.