The Hertfordshire scheme for Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing will comprise 52 shared ownership properties, 106 for affordable rent and 50 homes exclusively for the over 55s.

Steve Leakey, managing director of Higgins, said: “We have a proven track record of working with Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing on a number of successful schemes including Clapham Park and Ealing Road, Alperton and look forward to working in partnership with them to deliver another milestone project for the local community.”

Steve Lawson, senior development manager for Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing added: “The former Shredded Wheat Factory is an iconic site at the heart of Welwyn Garden City history.

Wheat Quarter in Welwyn Garden City will be developed with 1,440 flats

“Following seven decades as a bustling workspace, this former factory space will soon be serving the needs of the local community in a fresh new way as we prepare to regenerate the south site to reflect the unique needs of the diverse community.”