Holbeck Housing Upgrade Reaches Key Milestone

Significant progress made in improving energy efficiency of local homes

A major housing improvement scheme in Holbeck has reached a significant milestone, with over 100 back-to-back terraced homes now upgraded to enhance energy efficiency. The work forms part of a wider regeneration programme aimed at creating a healthier, greener, and better-connected community in this area of Leeds.

Details of the Housing Upgrades

Leeds City Council is overseeing the retrofitting of more than 150 back-to-back homes, making them easier and more affordable to heat. This is particularly important for residents concerned about cold-related illnesses and fuel poverty. The homes benefiting from the upgrades include a mix of council-owned, owner-occupied, and private rental properties.

The improvements completed so far cover homes on streets west of Holbeck Moor, including:

• Rydall Place
• Rydall Terrace
• Shafton Street
• Shafton View
• Crosby Terrace

Work carried out includes:

• New roofs
• Insulation of attic rooms and roof voids
• Chimney repairs
• Replacement of guttering and downpipes
• Installation of double-glazed windows and thermally efficient doors
• Application of external wall insulation with a brick-slip finish
• Enhancements to communal areas such as bin yards

The housing upgrade work began approximately ten months ago and is expected to be completed by spring 2027.

Heart of Holbeck Regeneration Programme

The housing improvements are part of the Heart of Holbeck programme, a £15.9 million regeneration initiative funded by central government. The programme aims to reduce deprivation and improve the physical and mental wellbeing of residents by creating a cleaner, safer, and more connected environment.

Other elements of the programme include:

• Plans to convert the Old Box Office building on Domestic Street into a multi-use community space, subject to planning approval
• Proposals to refurbish St Matthew’s Community Centre, including a revamped main hall, café, social seating area, kitchen, and mezzanine level
• Designs to enhance local roads and green spaces such as Domestic Street, Top Moor Side, and Holbeck Moor, improving accessibility and routes for pedestrians and cyclists

The programme is scheduled for completion by spring 2028 and is being delivered in partnership with Leeds Building Society and the Holbeck Together charity.

Community and Council Perspectives

Councillor Asghar Khan, Leeds City Council’s executive member for housing and hubs, highlighted the importance of the upgrades for residents, especially older and vulnerable people, noting the potential benefits for comfort and health. He also thanked the council’s construction partner Equans for their work on the scheme.

Sean Corcoran, regional director at Equans, stated that the investment in homes would have a lasting impact by making properties warmer and more affordable to heat.

Councillor Mary Harland, deputy leader of Leeds City Council and executive member for communities and community safety, commented on the wider regeneration efforts, emphasising the programme’s role in complementing other projects across south Leeds.

Elissa Newman, chief officer of Holbeck Together, noted that the programme is beginning to bring visible change and highlighted the potential impact of the proposed redevelopment of St Matthew’s Community Centre on local support services.

Background

Holbeck was historically an industrial hub during the 19th century, with many back-to-back homes constructed to accommodate a growing population. The area has faced economic challenges following the decline of heavy industry, with approximately 75% of children living in low-income families and life expectancy below the Leeds average. Fuel poverty rates in the Beeston & Holbeck ward have also been higher than average.

For further information on the Heart of Holbeck programme and related regeneration projects, please refer to Leeds City Council communications.