Issue - meetings

Reporting Person – Louise Strongitharm

Councillor Johnson, Portfolio Holder for Housing, introduced the report on the review of the Selective Licensing Scheme which was coming to an end on 31 March 2023.  It was noted that the Housing Task Group had been consulted on the proposals set out in the report.  The Executive heard that, although the Scheme had been useful in identifying private rented properties and landlords in Canalside Ward, it was proposed not to implement a further Selective Licensing Scheme due to the administrative burden and avoidance of further financial losses.  It was clarified that the Scheme did not include social housing in the Canalside Ward.

Councillor Johnson explained that the intention was to adopt an up-to-date set of Amenity Standards which would provide consistency across the whole Borough on what the Council required of private rented properties.  The Executive was supportive of the proposals, noting the importance of enforcement of the Amenity Standards.

RESOLVEd

That  (i)    the Selective Licence Scheme in the Canalside Ward is ended at the expiry date of 31 March 2023;

          (ii)   no further Selective Licensing Scheme be implemented at this time; and

          (iii)  the new Private Sector Housing Amenity Standards, as set out in Appendix 1 to the report, be adopted and form the basis of requirements and enforcement, with the Strategic Director – Communities, in consultation with the Housing Portfolio Holder, being delegated authority to make minor amendments when required.

Reason:   To agree the Council’s future approach to addressing issues of housing standards and improvements in private rental properties across the Borough.