The development will be built on the site of the former leisure centre in Flitwick and will include a 72-bed care home, eight-bed short stay unit and 88 independent living apartments for the over 55s.

Construction will start next month on the scheme designed by architects Oliver and Robb which will be built to the highest sustainable standards using Passivhaus criteria.

The care home and independent living apartments due to complete in Autumn 2023.

Julie Ogley, Director of Adult Social Care, Health and Housing said: “After a robust tender process Farrans were awarded the contract based on best value, quality and their strong track record and expertise in delivering construction projects of this nature on time and to budget.”

Cathal Montague, Regional Director at Farrans, added: “We are looking forward to beginning work on site in early 2022 and continuing to build on our strong relationship with Central Bedfordshire Council, as they progress with the agenda to deliver future-proof, high quality residential facilities for older people.

“We have recently started construction on Marigold House in Leighton Buzzard and we are approaching completion on Hendon Hall for Signature Living.

“Our team will be bringing our expertise and knowledge of the senior living sector to Steppingley Road older persons’ village, meeting dementia-friendly guidelines and incorporating the highest standards of sustainability to achieve Passivhaus accreditation.”