City council asks for views on reintroducing licensing scheme for PRS

Salford City Council is seeking public opinion on whether to reintroduce a selective licensing scheme for private landlords in parts of Broughton and Kersal.

Selective licensing requires all landlords renting properties within a designated area to obtain a license from the council.

The proposed scheme would cover around 1,340 properties across Broughton and the Kersal and Broughton Park wards, mirroring the previous scheme that ended in 2021.

It’s the latest council to announce a consultation in two days after Westminster City Council revealed theirs yesterday.

‘Important that local people have their say’

Salford’s deputy city mayor and lead member for housing, Councillor Tracy Kelly, said: “I’m pleased this consultation can now go ahead. It is important that local people have their say on this selective licensing scheme and put their views to us so they can help shape our full decision.

“Evidence in the area shows that challenges come with the amount of private rented properties in the area.”

She added: “Our aim is to make sure that local people have access to well-managed, affordable homes and that rogue landlords have no place in the area.

“This all links in with our commitment to create a fairer and more inclusive city for local people.”

Previously implemented two selective licensing schemes

Salford City Council has previously implemented two selective licensing schemes in the area, with the most recent one running from 2016 to 2021.

While acknowledging the positive impacts of the previous licensing scheme, the council recognises the need for further improvement.

Salford also says that it found most properties within licensable areas are benefitting from improvements and greater compliance from landlords.

The consultation will be open until January 20 2025 with more information about the selective licensing consultation on the council’s website.