Decision details

Approval to Consult on Proposed Selective Licensing Scheme in London Road, Abbeydale Road and Chesterfield Road

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Is Key decision?: Yes

Purpose:

Report seeking approval to begin a 13 week consultation programme on a proposed Selective Licensing Scheme in London Road, Abbeydale Road and Chesterfield Road.

Decision:

 

That he Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Community Safety:-

 

(i) approves the proposals to consult on a proposed Selective Licensing scheme as set out  in the report; and

 

(ii) delegates authority to the Director of Housing and Neighbourhood Services to design, develop and implement the consultation.

 

Reasons for the decision:

The Council acknowledges that the majority of landlords in Sheffield are professional, providing accommodation that is well managed and safe. There are however a number of irresponsible landlords who continue to let properties in a poor state of repair, neglect their management responsibilities demonstrating little regard to their tenants’ safety and well-being. Neglected and poorly managed properties not only impacts on the health and well-being of tenants but also has a detrimental impact on the local area.

 

Selective Licensing would introduce conditions that the private rented sector will have to meet to ensure that their properties are safe, well maintained and managed to a high standard. As a result residents’ health and well-being will improve and confidence in the private rented sector will grow. The area will become a more attractive place to live and work which will enhance the economic and social viability of the area.

 

Selective licensing is being proposed as it increases landlords accountable for the management of their properties and tenants. The Council considers that selective licensing will be an effective way to address badly managed and poorly maintained properties along the proposed area of London Road, Abbeydale Road and Chesterfield Road.

 

Given the Council’s selective licensing proposals it is required to take reasonable steps to consult with persons likely to be affected by the designation and consider their representations.  The recommendations seek approval for the Council to carry out that consultation.

 

Alternative options considered:

The report proposes that the Council, as required by the Housing Act 2004, go out to consultation on the proposed selective licensing scheme in the London Road, Abbeydale Road and Chesterfield Road area. Given the statutory requirement, no other alternative options were considered.  

Publication date: 23/11/2017

Date of decision: 23/11/2017

Effective from: 30/11/2017

Accompanying Documents: