The 13,000 sq ft Celtica Retail, which stocks Welsh and Celtic goods, becomes the third major retail unit to open onsite, following the Premier Inn hotel and restaurant Yr Harbwr.

And after initial plans for the dock were met with mixed feelings, it is now hoped that the site will spur the Royal Town's regeneration and increase visitor numbers.

Town centre manager Debbie Thomas, said: "This is a really exciting time down at the Doc, and it is great to see everything coming together. The unique shopping experience offered by Celtica, and the variety of other operators already signed up, will no doubt go further in ensuring that the development enhances what Caernarfon already has to offer."

Segontium Terrace residents Siwan Haf and Medi Davies added: "We live in the centre of Caernarfon and we absolutely adore the town, however we have sometimes felt a little frustrated with the lack of facilities and the fact that young people are moving away to work and live.

"We really believe that the new development at Doc Fictoria, coupled with Y Galeri and other town centre improvements, will further enhance the quality of life here."

Ms Thomas also confirmed that other businesses set to open at the dock include an oriental restaurant, the S4C offices, the new medical centre and a new creche.

The previously derelict site has been developed by Watkin Jones, and with the project entering the final straight, the remaining retail space is gaining strong interest.

Watkin Jones group director, Mark Watkin Jones said: "We are in discussions with a number of potential tenants, including another leading hotel chain, and are hoping to be in a position to make further announcements in the next week or two. This development has faced many challenges, but we've always remained confident that it will benefit both the local community and the wider economy in North Wales - the more people that come to Caernarfon means the more money that will be spent in the town."

It has also been confirmed that around half of the residential apartments have been sold, and reportedly most buyers are from the Caernarfon area.

nFor more, visit www.docfictoria.com.