The scheme could be extended to other estates

The initiative aims to encourage local young people who are looking to buy their own property to stay in the area.

The collapse in demand for council housing has become particularly acute on many estates in the north of Sheffield.

In addition, the housing stock is of poor quality and needs substantial investment.

The council stand to make savings in management and maintenance costs if the scheme is successful.

Legally bound

The council is stressing that new owners will be legally bound to carry out the renovations.

The covenant in the sale of the two bed properties requires the purchaser to carry out improvements such as installing central heating, double glazing and toilets.

Edith Storey, a Foxhill estate resident for 23 years, welcomed the plans.

"I think it's the standard of people who used to live here - the ruffians - who got the property into such a mess.

"Young people who buy houses are generally going to take better care of them than the ones who rent."