Twelve reservations were taken in the first fortnight after the launch of a high-profile collection of new apartments in Bournemouth.

The one, two and three bedroom apartments at The Wessex are on the site of the former Wessex Hotel in West Cliff Road.

The 94 apartments, built by AIM-listed Inland Homes, are in two five-storey high blocks.

Each apartment is finished to a high specification complemented by designer interiors, with access to secure underground parking.

Once finished, the development will be interspersed with large expanses of landscaped green spaces and lawn areas.

Prices start from £250,000.

A new 105-room Premier Inn hotel is also nearing completion.

Vicki Noon, Sales and Marketing Director, Inland Homes, said the launch had been a success.

Apart from 12 reservations a large number of potential customers had contacted the marketing suite for further information and to book viewing appointments.

She added: “We’re thrilled with the amount of positive feedback we’ve received so far.

“We’ve seen lots of interest from a variety of buyers, including first-time buyers and downsizers looking for a new property by the coast.

“The Wessex is in such a fantastic location and is in reach of every amenity needed to live a fulfilling lifestyle, so we expect lots more interest in the coming weeks.”

The Wessex Hotel was originally built in 1891 under the name Hawthorns Hotel before changing its name at the beginning of the 1960s.

It was the regular venue of the Wessex Dance Club for 27 years and home to Bournemouth’s second biggest ballroom next to the resort’s Pavilion.

The hotel closed in 2016.