A LONG-awaited housing development officially opens this week, over three years after work started.

Of the 22 new apartments and town houses in May Lane, Dursley, six have already been sold, such is the interest in the site, and on Saturday the public will finally be able to look around the development at an official open day.

Gloucestershire-based developer Cotswoldgate launched the project, called Bianco, in July 2007. However in 2008 the firm was badly hit by the credit crunch and went into administration.

After a period of time in the hands of a finance company the work was finally completed by developer Eden Stone Homes.

Richard Mace, of Besley Hill Estate Agents, which is marketing the properties, said it was positive news for Dursley.

"This is great for the town, there has been a lot of interest in the development with people wanting to know when it will be complete. Now people can finally take a look around."

The open day on Saturday, May 14, runs from 10am – 2pm. No booking necessary, just turn up to view the site and the showhome.