PROPOSED SELECTIVE LICENSING SCHEME

Local people are being asked for their views on a proposal to introduce a new licensing scheme for privately rented accommodation in parts of Margate Central and Cliftonville West.

The new selective licensing scheme is being proposed to help tackle the high levels of problems in the area, such as anti-social behaviour, crime, fires and empty properties.

Under the new scheme, landlords in the designated area would be required to apply for a licence for every privately rented flat, house or room in order to continue to operate in the area. The licence will contain a series of conditions that the property owner will be required to comply with relating to the management of the property, fire safety and anti-social behaviour. Landlords who own more than one property in the designated area would need to apply for a licence for each of the units of accommodation they rent out. There would be a charge of £525 per licence which landlords would be required to cover.

In other places where this type of scheme has been introduced, landlords have seen improvements such as less damage to properties, reduced management costs and a slower turnover of tenants. It is also anticipated that in the longer term as well as improving the image of the area and helping to improve the condition of housing, possible benefits could also include the possible rise in rent and property values.

Before adopting this scheme, the council is encouraging tenants, landlords and residents in the area to have their say on the proposal. Everyone living in the area will be contacted by letter with details about the scheme and with information on how to take part, including a short tear out survey. A survey is also available to complete online by visiting www.thanet.gov.uk, or any additional comments can be submitted in writing either to hannah.thorpe@thanet.gov.uk or free of charge to Selective Licensing Consultation, FREEPOST SEA 82 73, Thanet District Council, Margate CT9 1XZ.

Cllr. Chris Wells, Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: “The council is fully aware of the problems that exist in these two wards and we’re committed to doing everything we can to tackle them. One of the biggest issues for many years has been the huge supply in this area of privately rented housing. Bringing in a licensing scheme for these properties will help to ensure better regulation and could help to achieve some significant improvements in the area. Before adopting the scheme though it is important that local people have an opportunity to tell us what they think of the proposals. I’d like to encourage anyone who has a view, to make sure they take part in the consultation.”

Local people have until Monday 15 November to submit their comments. A full copy of the proposal can be viewed online or by calling in to Thanet’s Gateway Plus.