Rows of small, red-brick back-to-back houses have provided homes for generations of families and, while many have been bulldozed, Leeds has more surviving back-to-backs than any city in the country.

Their importance in the growth of Leeds was highlighted earlier this year when they were the subject of a lecture delivered by Kevin Grady, director of Leeds Civic Trust. And now millions of pounds are being spent to give the homes a new lease of life.

Senior councillors are next week expected to give the go ahead to a £1.5m scheme that will improve 50 homes in Beeston, extending their lifespan by at least 50 years.

It is the latest in a series of similar "Group Repair" schemes that are helping regenerate Leeds's inner city.

Homes to be improved in the latest phase are in Hardy Street, Hardy Terrace, Sefton Street, Sefton Terrace, Marian Grove, Catherine Grove, Sunbeam Terrace and Lodge Lane.

The work – due to be completed in 2009 – includes re-roofing, replacing chimney pots, safety checks on gas fires, brick cleaning and repairs, replacement of windows, and installation of high-security external doors. An average of £26,000 will be spent on each property.

Some of the houses are privately-owned and the owners will contribute between 10 per cent and 20 per cent of the cost.

Consultations on the repair work have taken place with local councillors, tenants, owner-occupiers, and the Regeneration Board for Beeston and Holbeck.

Councillor Les Carter, executive board member for housing, said:"The money we have pumped into this area of Beeston over the last four years is having an effect and this latest scheme should ensure that this housing can continue to be fit and suitable for years to come."