Funds make communities safer

Over £1 million is being made available to fund projects that improve community safety in Leeds.



A range of initiatives across the city will receive a cash injection from a £3 million fund set aside to help improve housing estates.



The types of projects funded include new CCTV in multi-storey flats and on shopping parades, upgraded security doors and glazing in flats and sheltered housing complexes, fencing and lighting to improve key areas and crime reduction projects.



Some projects have also been funded by the council’s Housing Advisory Panels, forums where local residents get to make decisions that affect the services and conditions in their area.



Councillor Peter Gruen, executive member for neighbourhoods, planning and personnel, said:



“Improving housing estates isn’t just about making them look pretty. We want to bring about tangible, genuine change for the better and this fund is the ideal tool to achieve that.



“Bids from 26 communities are being supported and they range from CCTV being installed at allotments on Fewston Lane, updating doors at Malborough Grange and Moor Grange Court to improve security and fencing in the Beckhill area to complement the neighbourhood framework.



“By investing in these projects we hope to provide people with the reassurance they need to feel secure in their homes and communities.”



Councillor Mark Dobson, executive member for cleaner, safer and stronger communities, said:



“You can’t put a price on the peace of mind simple security measures like these bring.



“Driven by the priorities of local people, this funding will go a long way in helping communities feel safe and help cut

crime.”



In June 2014 Executive Board agreed to allocate £3 million of Housing Revenue Account funds to deliver environmental improvement projects to improve the quality of council housing estates.



A total of 105 bids were received totalling £6.85 million and funds have been allocated based on delivering as many schemes as possible that contribute to the council’s priorities with an even spread across the city and input from ward members.



For media enquiries please contact:

Amanda Burns, Leeds City Council press office (0113) 395 1577

email: amanda.l.burns@leeds.gov.uk



ENDS