A social housing landlord has been forced to introduce around the clock security at a derelict sheltered housing complex amid mounting concern from “terrorised and scared” residents over gangs throwing fireworks and ripping lead from its roof.

Incommunities yesterday started 24-hour patrols at the empty Daily Court building on Quaker Lane, Little Horton, after residents complained of groups of up to 30 youths breaking in and causing chaos.

Councillor Naveeda Ikram (Lab, Little Horton) said she had been contacted by elderly and vulnerable residents who said they were struggling to sleep because they feared for their safety.

And one told her they had even witnessed youths throwing fireworks from the building on Thursday night.

“People are scared,” Coun Ikram said.

“One night there were four or five boys ripping lead from the roof. Windows have been smashed and pipes pulled from the walls.

“The other day people said they could smell gas coming from there. All it would take would be for someone to light something and ‘boom’.

“Nothing’s been done so far and they just keep breaking in.

“One night, there were 30 young people inside there causing trouble. The building’s got asbestos and there are live wires. It is just not safe.”

Referring to the role of the Telegraph & Argus in the saga, Coun Ikram said: “I’m glad that something is finally being done.

“Often it takes the media stepping in to make a difference. Until then, everyone wants to pass responsibility to someone else.”

The 57-unit site, which occupies 1.5 acres, was closed by Incommunities and put on the market last November.

A spokesman for the district’s largest social housing landlord said: “We are sorry to hear some residents have been disturbed by vandalism to our property.

“From today we have introduced around the clock security patrol at Daily Court. We will also be securing windows and doors with metal protection to stop any further damage.

“We continue to liaise with the police about the vandalism. They have been provided with CCTV footage of trespassers as part the security measures we have had in place since the building was vacated.

“We have already ordered the disconnection of all utility services ahead of the demolition of the building.”