Heart of Holbeck Housing Renewal Begins

Major upgrades to homes start as part of wider regeneration programme

The third phase of housing renewal in Holbeck has begun, aiming to improve the energy efficiency and condition of local homes. This work forms the initial stage of the Heart of Holbeck regeneration programme, supported by a £15.9 million Local Regeneration Fund grant.

Scope of the housing improvements

The contract for this phase has been awarded to Equans, a company specialising in sustainable regeneration. The programme will upgrade at least 180 homes in Holbeck, including council-owned properties, owner-occupied homes, and private rental sector dwellings. Key improvements include:

• External wall insulation
• New roofs
• Replacement windows and doors

These measures aim to make homes warmer and more energy efficient, reducing heating costs and fuel poverty for residents. The work is scheduled for completion by the end of spring 2027.

Funding and partnership

The project is funded primarily through a Local Regeneration Fund grant from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), alongside other sources such as the Great British Insulation Scheme and Warmer Homes grants. Leeds City Council is working closely with MHCLG, Equans, and local householders to deliver the improvements.

Context and previous phases

This is the third phase of group housing renewal in Holbeck, following earlier phases in 2017/18 and 2021/22 that improved around 300 homes. Similar energy efficiency upgrades have also taken place in other Leeds neighbourhoods including Armley, Little London, and Seacroft.

Future regeneration plans

Beyond housing, the wider Heart of Holbeck programme will include investment in a local community centre and enhancements to infrastructure, green spaces, and the local environment. These additional schemes are expected to commence later in 2026.

Objectives and impact

The housing renewal work is part of Leeds City Council’s efforts to address social and health inequalities, reduce fuel poverty, and contribute to the city’s goal of becoming the UK’s first net zero city. Improved energy efficiency is expected to lower carbon emissions and help residents with heating costs.

Statements from local officials

Councillor Mary Harland, Executive Member for Housing, highlighted the importance of providing warm, affordable homes as a foundation for health and wellbeing. She noted the environmental benefits of the upgrades and their role in reducing carbon emissions.

Councillor Asghar Khan, Executive Member for Communities, Customer Services and Community Safety, emphasised the scheme’s role in strengthening the community by making homes safer and more energy efficient, helping families reduce bills and improve health.

Sean Corcoran, Regional Director at Equans, pointed out that improving energy efficiency in existing homes is a key strategy for cutting carbon emissions and supporting net zero targets, while also making homes more comfortable and affordable for residents.

Further information

For more details or to share views on the Heart of Holbeck programme, residents can visit the Commonplace consultation platform.