Council greenlights licensing scheme despite landlord objections

North East Lincolnshire Council has approved a selective licensing scheme in targeted areas in one ward.

Following a 10-week public consultation which revealed lots of tenant support but little from landlords, the scheme will launch within six months.

The ward, East Marsh, ranks in the top 1% for deprivation.

It has low life expectancy, high crime rates and 24.6% of residents experience fuel poverty.

Contribute to safe streets

Cllr Stewart Swinburn, the council’s portfolio holder for housing, infrastructure and transport, said: “The introduction of selective licensing in the East Marsh supports the strategic aims of this council by supporting a stronger economy and stronger communities.

“We have listened to people in the East Marsh and they want better living conditions, they want to sleep safe in their beds, and they want to not have to worry about poor housing conditions or high crime impacting their lives.”

He added: “Selective licensing will enable conditions for good and sustainable homes, allowing residents to live a healthy life, nurturing our children and building their future, supporting our adults and contributing to clean and safe streets.”

Strengthen landlord accountability

The council says that East Marsh also has issues with noise complaints, fly-tipping and poor-quality rented homes.

The selective licensing scheme will strengthen landlord accountability, with the council empowered to issue hefty fines for non-compliance.

Of the 202 residents surveyed during consultation, 60% endorsed the scheme, with some landlords raising concerns about costs which could out up rents.

The council says it is committing to a cost-recovery model, with licence fees funding operations and a planned fee structure review to ensure affordability.