SIXTY-EIGHT million pounds will be spent on modernising Craven Housing's properties over the coming 30 years - £2 million of which will be invested this year.

Craven Housing is upholding a pledge that it made to council tenants three months ago when it took control of Craven District's Council's 1,540 homes.

David Bolton, head of technical services, said: "It is important to get started on work now because customer expectations are so high."

The landlord has set aside £2.2 million for a scheme of improvements this year to April 2004.

Already work has started on updating disabled access at sheltered accommodation across the district including Aynham Close, Greatwood Close, Roughaw Close, Laurel Croft, Yeadon House and Reid House. A re-roofing scheme has also begun at Russell Street, Skipton.

Over the coming weeks a pilot scheme will be launched in 39 properties on Burnside, Skipton. Works will include new kitchens, bathrooms, roofs and central heating systems.

Mr Bolton said that what was unique about this programme was the way the contracts were being managed. They will be customer focused and tenants will be able to choose from a greater range of quality kitchens, bathrooms and tiles selected from local suppliers.

Mr Bolton has also promised that there will be good communication between the tenants and their landlord.

Burnside tenants and representatives from Craven Housing have already met to talk about the refurbishments. One tenant has volunteered to help choose the selection of bathrooms and kitchens and to feedback any comments or concerns from residents.

Also tenants in Long Preston, Bentham, Cononley, Glusburn and Gargrave, are expected to see some home improvements over the next few months.

Mr Bolton said that over the coming five years £12 million would be spent on upgrading properties, and in addition to that £2 million could be invested over the next three to four years to re-model some sheltered accommodation schemes to better suit clients' needs.

Work has been prioritised based on customer needs and the needs and age of the properties. "For example, if a kitchen has been in 30 years it is likely to need replacing," said Mr Bolton.

Contracts for all the work will go out to tender but it is hoped that in the future Craven Housing may use local contractors and suppliers to boost the local economy.