Leeds Jewish Housing Association has officially opened a £14 million development of 85 apartments, the biggest project in its 69-year history.

National Housing Federation chief executive Kate Henderson and Leeds Lord Mayor Councillor Robert Gettings unveiled commemorative plaques for the two buildings — Cherry Tree House and Hillside — at a ceremony attended by residents and community members.

Cherry Tree House has 51 sheltered housing apartments and is connected to 130 existing properties to form a sheltered village for older people, offering secure access to the Ziff Community Centre. Hillside comprises 34 general needs flats.

LJHA chair Jane Wynick pointed out that “15 per cent of the Leeds Jewish community live with us. People go but others come back or move here.

“We have a vibrant Jewish and cultural life and people engage in many activities and voluntary work. Our housing association is the envy of many in other communities.” Looking ahead, she said LJHA was examining ways to provide more desperately needed family homes, affording “the same safety net we offer our youngsters, elderly, couples and singles.

“We need gardens where children can play safely and homes with room to grow.”

Congratulating LJHA on the project, Ms Henderson said it had created homes “that reflect what the community wants.

“Regeneration is never the easy option but it is a brilliant thing you’ve done for this community and with this community.”

The Lord Mayor observed that “Leeds is doing fantastically well as far as community cohesion is concerned. Leeds Jewish Housing Association is a wonderful example of that.”