The housebuilder will deliver 66 net zero carbon properties on the 12-acre site — 20 of which will be affordable homes.

All homes will feature solar PV panels, air source heat pumps, energy-efficient underfloor heating, EV charging points, 100% renewable energy, and fibre optic broadband.

The site is allocated for residential development as part of the Central Bedfordshire Local Plan, and has received a resolution to grant outline planning permission.

Hayfield is now in the process of preparing a reserved matters planning application pursuant to the outline plans.

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Once planning approval is granted, the firm aims to start construction in summer next year, with the first homes released for sale later that year.

Andy Morris, MD at Hayfield, said: “We are pleased to have exchanged on this land deal, one of the crucial stages in the development process.

“We can now move on to the planning stage, and I’m delighted to confirm that all of the private homes on the development will be built to EPC A standards in order to offer our customers a greener way of living.

“All of our zero carbon-ready homes have been thoughtfully designed to include initiatives that leave a lasting legacy for future generations, while delivering sustainable communities and places that enhance people’s wellbeing."