Swift Action Needed Say East Leeds Lib Dems

10.42.42am GMT Mon 6th Dec 2004

Planning permission was granted yesterday for the proposed Gipton Low Cost Ownership Scheme. Local Lib Dem Councillors claim it is essential that the grants made available with the scheme be swiftly introduced to ease the financial burden on potential buyers with a low income. Many local residents face the prospect of a mortgage up to four times their salary even after Council grants.

Councillor Ralph Pryke (Lib Dem, Burmantofts and Richmond Hill) said, " The housing scheme in Gipton provides a fantastic opportunity for local people to get on the housing ladder. Property ownership is an impossible dream for far too many people, so we must provide those people on low-incomes with every assistance available. We will work hard to ensure the people of East Leeds do not miss out. "

Councillor Alan Taylor (Lib Dem, Gipton and Harehills) added, "Local research has shown that many people in Gipton would like their own home and want to stay within their community. This is something we feel is essential for the regeneration of East Leeds. The proposed grants need to be swiftly introduced if local people are to benefit."

Gipton's Low Cost Ownership Scheme was approved by the Council's

Executive Board on 10/05/04. The Scheme provides grants of up to £12,000 for local people on a minimum wage of £15,0000 to enable them to buy their properties. The Scheme developed by Leeds East Homes and Leeds City Council will introduce 92 homes into the Amberton Road, Oaktree Drive and Gipton (previously known as Low Gipton Crescent) areas of East Leeds.