The first phase of a huge luxury waterside development has been unveiled to villagers and promises to benefit the local economy in Harefield.

A listed former-warehouse at the Royal Quay development near Coppermill Lock has been converted into 30 one, two and three-bedroom apartments each with views overlooking the Grand Union Canal and their own parking.

The Longroom on Summerhouse Lane, Harefield, is the first part of the development by Oakford Homes to open to the public.

When complete, the full project will provide more than 65 private homes over three separate phases, made up of newly built town houses and converted buildings made into apartments.

Chris Coates, of Oakford Homes, said the project will benefit Harefield’s economy : “It’s expected that Royal Quay will bring an influx of wealth to the area from the new residents who choose to live here.

“We are delighted to be unveiling the first phase of Royal Quay from the Longroom, which is an iconic building in its own right.

“We anticipate a great deal of interest in the homes due to their spectacular location and fantastic build quality,” he said.

Oakford Homes, which has won awards for its developments in Royal Windsor, is working with Bewick Homes of Bedford and Ashill Developments of south-west London on the project.

The plans drew a positive response from villagers during a public consultation hosted by Ashill Developments in March last year, with almost 100 people looking at the plans.

But a part of the site did fall victim to flooding earlier this year when the UK was hit by one of the wettest winters in more than 200 years, despite the fact that it is outside of the flood zone.

As a result, site owner Ashill Developments raised ground levels on the island part of the site between the basin and main canal, as part of the redevelopment process.

While preparing its planning application, Ashill consulted with the Canal River Trust, the Environment Agency and Thames Water, and says it has continued that dialogue throughout the process to gain a thorough understanding of the surrounding waterways.

Prices for the apartments start from £215,000. Buyers can register their interest to receive privileged information about the scheme by contacting Oakford Homes directly on 01628 522084.

More information can be found at www.oakfordhomes.co.uk.