A major development has taken a step forward with the completion of the first new building in the ambitious £70 million Victoria Mills scheme in Saltaire.

The architects behind the canalside regeneration, which has included the renovation of a 130-year-old-mill, have announced the completion of the first block of more than 100 flats in the development, known as VM1.

It is the first of three new buildings to be completed by developer Newmason Properties, which has also converted original Victorian mill buildings nearby.

When completed, the entire Victoria Mills development will include more than 400 luxury apartments.

There will also be outdoor facilities including a tennis courts, running track, large chess boards, water features and picnic areas.

Work on the other two new buildings, known as VM2 and Northern Lights, is also under way. It is scheduled for completion in summer 2008.

Andrew Mason, a partner in Newmason Properties, said: "We are delighted that we have completed the first new building in the Victoria Mills.

"The completion and hand over of VM1 is a significant milestone which marks the culmination of a process which has seen both the architect and the developer visit numerous similar schemes across the north of England to derive inspiration.

"The stunning result is testimony to the vision and dedication of our architect partner, Beckwith Design Associates."

The Saltaire-based architects Beckwith Design has been involved with numerous schemes along the Aire Valley, including the King Cole Mills development at Crossflatts and Spinners Wharf in Shipley.

It is also working on the proposed £7million redevelopment of the former Glenroyal cinema on behalf of developers Mandale.

Beckwith Design managing director, Tony Lupton, said: "With the proximity to a World Heritage site it was vital that our designs complemented and enhanced this part of the Aire Valley.

"And in this huge project, we have invested significant time and energy to make sure we have achieved just that."