The West End Development Corporation (Wedco) is trying to convince residents to live in Dockyard.

The first phase of a development of townhouses - which will begin in the autumn - includes the conversion of buildings at Dockyard Terrace into five three-bedroom residential units, forming part of Wedco's overall plan to take full advantage of the area's rebirth following the introduction of the fast ferry last year.

Other planned developments include the conversion of the top floor of the Clocktower building into office space beginning early next year and the eventual transformation of the former Casemates prison into either a hotel, museum or condominium complex.

Wedco's commercial property manager Edward Williams said: "We are now able to develop more things here that would attract locals as opposed to just visitors. The feeling that Dockyard is at the end of the earth is on the wane."

Mr. Williams said that the fast ferries had "a tremendous impact" on retailers and added that he would like to see Dockyard developed even further as a place where people choose to live.

Regarding the acquisition of Casemates, he said: "We would love to get our hands on that building and we're optimistic that we will be able to in the not-too-distant future. It's difficult to say what we would do with the former prison but the hotel idea was something that was put forward in our earlier plans."

He added: "There are actually a whole host of buildings behind those walls. There are a whole host of concepts that could be included and we would like the opportunity to develop it so we can realise its potential. It has vaulted ceilings and it commands such spectacular views."