Plans to beef-up regulation to improve rented accommodation in South Tyneside

Bosses at South Tyneside Council have approved the start of a 10-week consultation on a new licensing scheme which could force properties put up for let to conform to set standards.

It could eventually cover more than 3,000 houses and flats with the aim of stabilising rental and market values, as well as reducing the number of homes sitting empty.

Coun Mark Walsh, cabinet member for housing and transport, said: “We recognise the important role the private rented sector plays and want to make sure our residents have a good choice of high standard accommodation.

“Selective licensing supports this ambition and is aimed at giving private tenants greater choice of good quality and well-managed accommodation, as well as reducing antisocial behaviour, turnover of accommodation and home maintenance.

“The scheme will support tenants and encourage landlords to be responsible and accountable for their properties, resulting in long term and more sustainable tenancies.”

Coun Walsh was speaking at a cabinet meeting which approved the start of consultation and added there was a ‘strong case’ for the scheme to be implemented.

It is hoped licensing would improve the quality of rented housing stock in the borough, more than a third of which was built before 1900.

The scheme will initially cover the Beach Road area of the council’s Westoe and Beacon & Bents wards and the ‘Long Streets’ area in the Simonside & Rekendyke ward, in South Shields.