Plans have been signed off to improve the cleaning of communal areas of council-run housing blocks with the current standard labelled "poor and infrequent".

A report about block cleaning of communal areas run by the local authority states the frequency of cleaning will be increased to every fortnight, with the council's caretaking and cleaning services taking over the service.

Residents at 1,430 properties in 238 blocks across the borough will be affected by the boost and the extra cost will be £112,000, which will be covered in Bury's housing revenue account budget.

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The work involves "sweeping and mopping, dusting ledges, skirtings, bannisters and removing rubbish to keep the areas clear from obstructions".

The report, signed off by officers, says: "The current standard of block cleaning is poor and infrequent due to a lack of resources."

As part of the contract, the council will set up a service level agreement in which its neighbourhood services will act as the client.

Ten per cent of the blocks that have been cleaned will be inspected weekly to "ensure that they are achieving the required standard" as part of the agreement.

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A council spokesperson said: "The building cleaning and caretaking team are very well respected across Bury, responsible for over 80 schools and administration buildings.

"They are complimented on their high level of cleanliness and customer service. 

"Now that the team has taken over from the previous service provider, it allows the quality of the communal areas to be managed more effectively. 

"Using the building cleaning and caretaking service to fulfil these needs also supports gaps in service due to the vast bank of staff to cover any shortfalls."

As well as council officers, cabinet member for housing services, Cllr Clare Cummins, has signed off the proposals.