A Leeds initiative to improve housing standards and target empty properties across the city has moved into Armley this week.

The Leeds Neighbourhood Approach, led by Leeds City Council, has already proved successful in the Nowells area in east Leeds and will now be targeting 130 properties in the Edinburgh estates in Armley.

The council, working alongside partners such as the police and fire service, have identified 14 empty properties in the immediate area with a further 51 empties in the adjoining area which will also be subject to action. Out of the 131 properties identified for the project, 41% of the stock is privately rented with a number of properties in multiple occupation.

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Councillor Peter Gruen, Leeds City Council executive board member with responsibility for neighbourhoods, planning and support services, said: "The Leeds Neighbourhood approach was a real success in the Nowells area, and we are keen to build on this success in Armley.

"By working with small neighbourhoods we are able to work closely with landlords and tenants to ensure we improve housing standards in the area and also offer help and assistance moving forward for the area.

"We want to work with and help landlords and property owners to improve the conditions of their properties, but after the six week period we initially give them to engage with us we will pursue enforcement action where necessary to ensure work across these small neighbourhoods remains consistent and allows for improvements across the area."

(CD/JP)