KIRKLEES Council will feature in a Government document about how to make areas attractive places to live.

The Government's Improvement and Development Agency (IDeA) was impressed by the council's crime and vandalism reduction tactics.

It decided to include them in a publication of 52 new ideas for making areas popular to live in.

The publication is called A Year of Liveability Challenges 2004-2005.

The publication is just one project planned by IDeA, which was set up in 1999 to help councils improve.

Kirklees Council's winning tactics involved re-designing problem areas and estates to include better security, fenced gardens and lighting for residents.

The tactics have lowered arson, burglary, robbery and theft.

Residents told the council the improvements had made their quality of life better.

Jo Webb, IDeA regional associate for Yorkshire, said: "Kirklees Council has shown how much can be done when local people are involved in solving problems.

"Congratulations to Kirklees. Their hard work has brought about real improvements."