THE first phase of a £12m waterside apartment complex has been completed.

Sunderland Housing Group's landmark Lakeside Towers are well under way with external work completed and internal renovations in hand.

The 17-storey blocks of flats will have replacement kitchens, bathrooms, floors and heating systems. The towers have been rendered, predominantly white, each with an individual colour scheme.

A large security effort has been included in the planning with cameras and concierges in every block 24 hours a day.

The buildings are also floodlit at night.

David Dixon, local company director for the group, said: "The Lakeside Towers occupy one of the best sites in Sunderland. We are starting to see the differences the investment is making and it can only enhance everyone's lives."

Councillor Les Scott, chairman of Sunderland Housing Group board, campaigned for the redevelopment.

He said: "The blocks now look terrific and the feedback I am getting from the residents is that they cannot wait for the redevelopments to finish. This area is viewed as the gateway to the city."

The housing group took over Sunderland's housing stock in March 2001 after a ballot of tenants.

It is responsible for the management and improvement of 36,000 homes previously owned by Sunderland City Council.