THE transformation of Diglis Basin from a former boatyard to upmarket housing development is to be officially unveiled this weekend.

At 10am on Saturday, Worcester Mayor, Councillor Aubrey Tarbuck, will cut the ribbon to the marketing suite and show apartment of what is now known as Diglis Water.

It will mark the opening of one of the Midlands' most exciting new homes regeneration projects.

Developer Bryant Homes has planned a dramatic entrance for the occasion, as a huge curtain will wrap the suite and be dropped when the homebuilder throws open its doors for the first time.

A day of entertainment is planned, with a live jazz trio performing, refreshments, provided, plus the first chance to purchase a new apartment at Diglis Water.

Senior sales manager, Stephen Cleveley said: "The anticipation for this launch has been building for months and we're very excited to be finally able to showcase the development to the public. It seems most of Worcester has been getting ready for this day and, judging by the early feedback, we're sure the day will be a tremendous success.

"It will be the first chance for people to reserve a home at Diglis Water and become part of something special.

''The development will mean so much to the city. Once it is fully underway, Worcester will have its very own waterside development to rival Birming-ham's Brindley Place.

"Members of the public are invited to join us on this momentous occasion. As well as having the first brochures and models ready for viewing, visitors can explore our new show apartment, built above the marketing suite." Diglis Water is a 26-acre development, on the east bank of the River Severn, which will transform the canal basin area and provide a blend of new build homes and refurbished existing buildings.

The first phase to be re-leased, which is to be known as Medina, comprises 48 one and two-bedroom apartments in an L-shaped three-storey building which overlooks the inner canal basin.

The homes have undercroft parking and many feature terraces overlooking the basin and Worcester Cathedral.

Further plans include approximately 390 homes, comprising mainly apartments and also some townhouses, as well as retail and leisure units.

The scheme also encompasses repair and restoration of the canal basins and an overhaul of the banks of the Severn, creating public and private riverside parklands and tree-lined vistas.

Selling agent is Allan Morris on 01527 557 144