Recent data has highlighted significant progress in Leeds’ efforts to develop the quality housing that its residents need and deserve.
Over the past year, ending in March, the city constructed 4,441 homes — its highest output since the early 1980s and 35% above the local target for the year. Of these, more than 650 homes were designated as affordable, available either for rent below market rates or for purchase through shared ownership schemes. Illustrating Leeds City Council’s proactive stance in addressing the local impacts of the national housing crisis, the council itself was responsible for delivering approximately 40% of these affordable homes. Additionally, successful partnerships with housing associations have facilitated further development of affordable housing schemes in the area.
Leeds’ housebuilding achievements in 2023/24 are part of a sustained effort, with the city constructing more affordable homes over the past five years than any other major city in the country outside of London. Additionally, the percentage of these homes designated for social rent, a highly affordable housing option, exceeds the national average.
Furthermore, Leeds has consistently ranked among the top four local authorities in England for housing delivery, both affordable and market-rate, over the last five years. During this period, Leeds has contributed approximately 1.5% of all new homes built in England. If the Leeds model were adopted nationally, it could potentially result in the construction of 300,000 new homes annually.
This figure would significantly advance the country toward the central government’s recently announced annual housebuilding target of 370,000 units. Recently completed affordable housing projects by the council include a development in Middleton, featuring Gascoigne House, a facility with 60 extra care apartments, along with 100 family homes and 16 wheelchair-accessible bungalows.
This year also marked the commencement of construction on 88 new homes in Seacroft and the Ambertons area of Gipton, which will be available as council housing at affordable rents. Additionally, the council’s housing association partners are progressing on several projects. These include 152 homes at Calverley Lane in Horsforth and 146 homes at Breary Lane in Bramhope, developed by Stonewater and Yorkshire Housing, respectively. In the city centre, over the next five years, more than 1,000 affordable homes are being developed by housing associations such as Guinness, WDH, Clarion, 54North, and L&G Affordable Homes.
Councillor Jess Lennox, Leeds City Council’s executive member for housing said:
“It is really pleasing to see such impressive housing development activity in the city. This is the result of strong investment from the private sector and excellent collaborative work by the council, housing associations and the third sector.
“Together we are using every tool at our disposal to deliver affordable homes for those households and families most in need. Despite these efforts, however, we still face significant challenges caused by ongoing increases in demand.
“It is essential, therefore, that we maintain our current momentum to ensure we provide the necessary supply, choice and quality of homes in the right locations as part of our continued regeneration and growth.”
Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development said:
“The delivery of new homes is essential to the growth of our economy, particularly at a time when the population of Leeds has been rising faster than the national average. As well as ensuring that we meet the needs of all our communities, we should see housing as critical infrastructure that helps us create new jobs and supports our key sectors in driving the city forward.
“It is equally important that our growth is locally-led, with our Leeds Local Plan identifying the most sustainable locations and sites for development. We are committed to ensuring a strong local voice as we prepare an update to the Leeds Local Plan and a further review that will set the course for the next phase of housing growth up to 2040.”
Andy Wallhead, chair of the West Yorkshire Housing Partnership said:
“Delivering affordable, high-quality homes is a key priority for the West Yorkshire Housing Partnership and these figures show what can be achieved by working closely together. We’ve developed a close working relationship with Leeds City Council and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, and we’re delighted that more homes have been built over the last 12 months than at any other time since the early 1980s – including hundreds of affordable homes. We look forward to building on the momentum achieved and delivering even more of the homes that local people and local communities need.”
In 2023/24, Leeds saw the completion of 4,441 new homes, encompassing a variety of housing types and developers, including the council. Within the affordable housing sector, available tenures for rent include both ‘affordable’ and ‘social’ categories. Affordable rents are offered at a minimum of 20 percent below the current local market rate, while social rents are set even lower than affordable rents.
The West Yorkshire Housing Partnership, which includes 13 housing associations and two local authorities, one being Leeds City Council, plays a crucial role in the region. This partnership owns or manages approximately 180,000 homes across West Yorkshire. It serves as a central hub for social housing-related ambitions, policies, and collaboration throughout the area.
Leeds is proactive in addressing the diverse housing needs of its population. Alongside new development, the city is renovating existing properties to meet modern standards of living. These renovations are crucial in preserving the architectural heritage of Leeds while ensuring that all housing is safe, comfortable, and suitable for contemporary living.
Looking to the future, Leeds is poised to continue its trajectory as a leader in innovative housing solutions. With plans to expand housing developments, integrate smart technology, and enhance community amenities, the city is committed to providing homes that meet the needs of its growing population.
The ongoing transformation in Leeds not only reflects the city’s dynamic approach to urban development but also its dedication to creating sustainable and inclusive communities. As Leeds continues to grow, it remains a beacon of how cities can evolve to meet the challenges of the 21st century, ensuring that all residents have access to affordable, high-quality, and sustainable living options www.leedshomes.org.uk
For more details on the Leeds Local Plan, please visit www.leeds.gov.uk
