Newcastle City Council is signed up to creating a safer and more secure private rented sector. According to the council most landlords take their responsibilities seriously, but there is a minority who don’t.
Public consultation
The council is running a public consultation exercise on a bold and ambitious proposal for a new selective property licensing scheme for Columbia Grange in North Kenton. The scheme once approved aims to raise standards in the three blocks of flats and nearby properties, make private landlords more responsible and accountable while improving the upkeep of flats, communal areas and outside gardens.
Kenton councillor Stephen Lambert this week welcomed the new property/selective licensing plan for the area.
He said:
”We’ve had several complaints about the condition of these homes from existing tenants and nearby neighbours especially over anti-social behaviour, fly-tipping and unkempt gardens and communal areas. Private sector residents in Columbia Grange deserve a quiet life and homes which are fit to live in and are well managed.”
He added that the new five-year scheme will help to address these issues.
The council wants to hear from tenants, resident, managing agents and landlords themselves on this proposal.
Selective licensing proposals
According to the council’s private rented section there are clear benefits of property licensing. In areas where a scheme has been brought in like Cowgate estate, the quality of homes has improved, anti-social behaviour has gone down and the immediate environment has been made safer.
Other selective licensing scheme proposals cover Lemington and Denton Court.
The consultation exercise ends on 28 May 2024.
