A huge project to return the River Ver to its natural beauty has been launched.

The plan will include changes to Verulamium Park and the water quality of its artificial lakes and is expected to cost a seven figure sum.

Major improvements will also be made to the surrounding wildlife and landscape including the creation of accessible wetlands teeming with birds, fish and insects as well as plants.

The Environment Agency has been working on the plan along with St Albans City and District Council, which owns the park, and other partners.

Nearby residents and interested organisations are to be told in detail about the project and asked for their views.

Initial work is due to start in 2019.

The main aim is to improve a 2.5 kilometre section of the rare chalk stream that flows through the park to Sopwell Mill Farm.