Plans to Regulate Landlords in Deprived Grimsby Area Announced

Plans have been revealed to address problematic landlords in one of England’s most deprived regions. North East Lincolnshire Council stated that a 10-week public consultation on proposals to implement “selective licensing” in Grimsby’s East Marsh is set to commence in January. Landlords would be required to apply to the council for this licence before leasing their properties. These properties would then undergo inspections to ensure they meet safety and living standards. The authority added that this scheme aims to encourage private landlords to “provide safe, warm and secure homes.” East Marsh was identified by the council as one of the country’s most deprived wards. In addition to gathering feedback on selective licensing, residents will also be consulted on the establishment of “areas of action” in the Sidney Sussex and Heneage wards. The authority hopes “to motivate landlords to work more closely with the council to bring their properties up to standard.” Councillor Stewart Swinburn, the portfolio holder for housing, commented: “The borough has pockets of high deprivation, poor quality homes, low housing demand, high levels of anti-social behaviour and crime.” He stated that the council had identified three areas requiring intervention to enhance living conditions. He added: “A selective licensing scheme, along with a robust and coordinated approach to enforcement, could be an effective way of improving conditions, encouraging inward investment, driving up housing standards and improving housing demand.” Swinburn remarked that providing safe homes for people was “the very least we should expect for our residents.” He further stated: “Poor homes have a substantial effect on health and, with selective licensing, we would be saying to landlords that we will not tolerate neglect of our communities, and we are committed to building a better future for all our residents.” According to the council, the licence would cover issues such as overcrowding and mandate that homes are equipped with smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Landlords would also be required to collaborate with organizations to address anti-social behaviour and waste management. The council confirmed that further details regarding the consultation process and participation methods would be made available in the new year.