Construction work started today on a key £55million development in Gloucester.

After the completion of the initial ground work the transformation of derelict Bakers Quay by Rokeby Merchant has begun.

Barnwood Construction will develop the canal side site which will include 100 flats, a Premier Inn hotel and restaurants.

The marketing website bakersquay.com says: "Bakers Quay is the final section of the old Gloucester Docks to be redeveloped.

"The redevelopment of the area will be split into two consecutive phases, with phase one encompassing the construction of the new Provender building.

"The phase will also include the conversion of the Engine House adjoining Provender into a Brewers Fayre restaurant, as well as the building of a new Premier Inn and costa Coffee outlet.

"Phase two of the programme will include the refurbishment of the Downings warehouse, Malthouse warehouse and Transit shed into a number of residential apartments and restaurant units."

The website says the development will include 47 one and two bedroom luxury waterside apartments built on the footprint of the old Foster Brothers Oil and Cake Mill, designed to blend seamlessly into the historic surroundings with many iconic features of the original mill retained.

"The well appointed apartments are set across five floors, many with extensive balcony space and panoramic views," it says. Penthouse duplex apartments will be located across the fourth and fifth floors of the Provender building.