A new scheme to develop more than 250 city apartments was officially launched in Birmingham yesterday.

Called Skyline, the £44 million scheme is the latest project in the city by housebuilder KingsOak.

Guided by two body-painted female models, guests boarded an open-top bus to view the development on Bath Row, which is due to be completed in October.

Managing director for KingsOak South Midlands Paul Jewell said Skyline would help cement the company's reputation in the city.

"On the back of our Centenary Plaza development we have become known as experts at designing space for living," Mr Jewell said.

"We plan to have a major city centre development in Birmingham on a ongoing basis.

"We have one or two other city centre developments in the pipeline at the moment."

Mr Jewell said the development was unique because it was not mixed use and the apartments had enough space to fit in furniture.

"Many developments in the city centre are built over late night bars, but Skyline is a purely residential development in walking distance from nightlife.

"It is also more than 258 departments, it is 258 apartments that have been individually optimised for living."

KingsOak, which is part of the Barratt Group, said off-plan sales had currently exceeded expectations with 55 apartments already reserved. Prices range from £149,950 to £265,000 for a penthouse suite.