PLANS for a multi-million pound, state-of-the-art retirement village have taken a major step forward.

Property developers and care providers came out in force to hear a presentation by social services bosses this week, who are confident that several will submit tenders by March 16.

The council wants to select a preferred developer for the scheme, which gives old people the independence of living in their own home with the benefits of key services and community life on their doorstep.

However, it is questionable whether such an ambitious project would be built at the doomed Warthfield old folks' home, the council's original idea.

Bosses admit they are ideally looking for a five-acre site, while Warthfield is only half that size.

The successful provider would be expected to identify a site, attract private money and build the village, with accommodation for sale and rent. They may provide home care themselves, or through a partner.

Ms Eleni Ioannides, director of social services, health and housing, said Wednesday's presentation was highly successful, with many developers showing interest.

"Some of the schemes we have seen elsewhere are breath-taking," she said.

"Ours could have a range of facilities, including a hairdresser, gym, a pharmacist, treatment room, maybe shops and transport links.

"Residents would have their own front door and their own tenancy, and as much or as little communal life as they are looking for."

Ms Ioannides said that some otherwise healthy people, perhaps in their mid-50s, might want to buy a home there so they wouldn't have to move when they did need care.

"We've got the Warthfield site, but it might not necessarily be the site for this: we might be looking for something bigger. Part of this process will be to identify the appropriate site."

Councillor Mike Connolly, executive member for health and social services, added: "People are living longer and healthier lives and residential care is no longer the only or even desirable solution for many.

"We think a purpose-built village will offer our residents a secure and imaginative solution to their lifestyle needs into their later years."