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 and Ilkley, yesterday published details of the payments being made to England’s 353 councils in recognition of their contribution to building new homes.

Mr Hopkins said: “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.

“They are free to spend the money any way they like to benefit their local communities.”