Progress is being made as a new luxury retirement village has reached its next phase of construction.

Mayfield Watford launched a topping out ceremony to mark the completion of the external buildings at the village which forms part of the major Riverwell development, near Watford General Hospital.

The development will be home to 255 properties, centred around the Mayfield Club, and will include a bar, bistro, swimming pool, village hall, fitness rooms, and spa.

Watford Observer: A current look at the constructionA current look at the construction

Watford MP Dean Russell was invited to the ceremony to see the progress made at the village, and to plant a tree to mark the next phase of construction.

Watford Observer: A tree was planted to mark the completion of the external buildings phaseA tree was planted to mark the completion of the external buildings phase

The village is said to be the first in the UK to address the increasing demand for modern and mid-market retirement options.

Out of the properties that have already gone to market, 30 per cent have been sold or reserved.

Watford Observer: What the inside is expected to look likeWhat the inside is expected to look like

Mr Russell said:“It’s been a really enjoyable day and I’m pleased to be here to mark the next step in such an important development.

“Mayfield Watford will bring much needed age-appropriate housing, importantly with care facilities available, to the town. It’s something we need so much more of.

“The facilities also look magnificent – I, for one, can’t wait to pop back when it is open to enjoy the bistro, having sampled some of the food on offer today.”

Watford Observer: A CGI of Mayfield Watford villageA CGI of Mayfield Watford village

The Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, also said: “I am delighted that our vision to create a vibrant new neighbourhood at Watford Riverwell includes the Mayfield village, which offers local people a high quality and exciting option for retirement living.

“This important milestone for Mayfield is a great step in our overall ambitions for Riverwell. I know that people moving here will find it a great place to live, offering something for everyone – no matter their age or interests.”

The Government housing agency, Homes England, announced last month that a £40 million funding interjection will go towards the construction of the retirement village.

Nick Sanderson, CEO of developers Audley Group, said: “The completion of the external building phase of Mayfield Watford is a proud moment for many of us. There is a real lack of villages like this in the UK, and a growing older population that deserve better choices. We are delighted to have brought that choice to those living in and around the Watford area, and to be part of this incredible regeneration programme in Watford Riverwell.

“The ceremony today was a nice chance to celebrate the achievements of all those who are working on the project, from tradesmen to architects. We are looking forward to completing the internal fit out and welcoming our first Mayfield owners to this fantastic village”