APARTMENTS in some areas of Bradford are cheaper to buy than they are to build – according to a local architect.

Amir Hussain of Yeme Architects was discussing the problem with relying on the private housing sector to regenerate areas of the city centre when they were likely to lose money on their developments.

Mr Hussain, sitting as chair of West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Place, Regeneration and Housing Committee, said you could buy apartments in some areas of Bradford for £42,000 – and it was unlikely developers could build a new apartment for that much.

The Committee was discussing a partnership between the Combined Authority and Homes England that would see the Government body get involved in housing developments in a number of local areas.

One of the planned housing developments that the committee were told Homes England would likely be involved in is the City Village project – a scheme that will see 1,000 homes developed on the Oastler Market and Kirkgate Centre sites in Bradford once those buildings are demolished.

There are numerous empty sites in Bradford city centre that have been suggested for development for years.

At the meeting Mr Hussain explained that low property value in these areas meant that they had been ignored by private developers, who would not likely invest until they know they can make a profit.

He said this partnership with Homes England was a way to develop these run down areas into thriving locations without needing to rely on the private sector.

He told members: “This (partnership) is a fantastic opportunity given the viability challenges in our region. It is a way to really improve areas.

“It is important we don’t just end up with X number of units on a piece of land that don’t do anything to uplift their surroundings.

“They need to be aspirational developments.

“In parts of Bradford city centre you can buy an apartment for £42,000. You can’t build them for that much. That precludes any private developers from taking on some sites.

“Doing schemes like this can help transform areas, which will lead to a bit more buoyancy in property values. That means private sector landlords will then invest.

“That’s what is one of the great things that can come out of this partnership.” Members were told that they would be given a more detailed report on the partnership next Spring.