SIR – I was shocked to read (T&A, January 18) that there are nearly 14,000 empty homes around Bradford. I can only assume these are due to repossession and people being evicted.

Many people are on benefits and in low-paid jobs, and finding it hard to keep up with bills and the cost of living.

The Council has failed to address the lack of affordable rentable housing, meaning more people becoming homeless or moving to places like Halifax or Huddersfield, which have better access to amenities.

Surely it is time for the politicians and citizens of Bradford to talk-up the city in a positive light and not to put it down.

More new jobs, more new rented homes and more new investment in the city are needed. Let us stop the rot now and be a proud city again.

Martin Palliser, Waincliffe House, Laisterdyke