Westminster City Council has given the go-ahead to a huge new selective licensing scheme covering 15 of the London borough’s 18 wards.
It aims to tackle poor housing conditions and reduce anti-social behaviour by targeting rogue landlords and bringing substandard properties up to acceptable living standards. The authority explains that its decision to go approve the scheme follows careful consideration of a public consultation and a detailed evidence base.
Councillor Matt Noble, cabinet member for regeneration and renters, says: “The selective licensing scheme is about supporting responsible landlords and ensuring that every resident in Westminster has access to safe, secure, and well-maintained housing. We’re focused on improving living conditions, not only to protect tenants but also to support landlords who do the right thing.”
The scheme will be rolled out over two designations, the first is in eight wards with high levels of poor housing conditions: Abbey Road, Church Street, Harrow Road, Knightsbridge and Belgravia, Little Venice, Maida Vale, Queen’s Park and Westbourne. The second designation is in seven wards experiencing both high levels of poor housing conditions and significant and persistent problems caused by anti-social behaviour: Bayswater (pictured), Hyde Park, Lancaster Gate, Marylebone, Pimlico North, Regent’s Park and West End.
It promises to publish the scheme’s start date and guidance on when and how landlords can apply for licences, soon. Landlords of well managed properties will get incentives, including fee discounts for accredited landlords and for the most energy efficient properties.
The authority recently launched a tenants’ charter aimed at helping private renters better understand their rights, improve living standards, and access support services. It has also suggested banning sales and letting boards borough-wide.
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