CANNONFIRE blasts reverberated for miles around to launch Runcorn's very own Riviera.

An ear-piercing firework display celebrated the start of 'The Deck', a £50m waterside development - 466 apartments in six blocks, known as 'locks', designed to look like vessels moored on the quayside.

"It demonstrates confidence in the future of Runcorn," said Halton's Mayor, Cllr John Swain, speaking at a VIP launch.

"They will get more people here and increase spending power. Halton can really appreciate the benefits."

Sailing names such as 'The Jetty' and 'The Reef' have been given to apartments, being built at Old Quay, a former shipyard in Mersey Road.

With prices starting at £88,000, 40 homes were snapped up before a show apartment went on display.

The first residents are expected to move in by Christmas 2007. The remaining apartments and retail units, including a coffee shop, are to open within six years.

Bob Pickthall, regional managing director of Taylor Woodrow, said: "The regeneration of Runcorn has started in a big way. We believe this place will be rocking."

Innovative wings designed by architects will give all residents, except those on the ground floor, a river view.