Bradford Council has received almost £20 million as reward for its contribution to building new homes.

The cash is part of more than £2 billion dished out to Councils by the government as part of its New Homes Bonus initiative.

Housing Minister Kris Hopkins, who is also MP for Keighley, today published details of the payments being made to England’s 353 councils in recognition of their contribution to building new homes.

Under the New Homes Bonus, councils have been rewarded for delivering 550,000 newly-built homes and conversions and bringing 93,000 empty homes back into use.

Of the 21 local authorities in Yorkshire and the Humber, only Leeds received a larger slice of the region’s £172 million than Bradford. Bradford got £19,866,652.

Mr Hopkins said: “Top-down regional strategies and eco-towns failed hardworking families who aspired to own their own home, and built nothing but resentment.

“In stark contrast, councils have received more than £2 billion for their part in getting Britain building, and leading to housing construction reaching its highest levels for seven years.

“And they are free to spend the money any way they like to benefit their local communities – whether that’s supporting frontline services, providing new facilities or freezing council tax.”