Selective Licensing Scheme Evaluation, re-designated Area Central Bensham

This evaluation report provides the key findings of a five year Selective Landlord Licensing Scheme for the re-designation of Central Bensham.

Gateshead Council has been at the forefront of tackling poor standards in the private rented sector for many years, using Selective Landlord Licensing (SLL) Schemes to proactively address problems within the sector since 2007.

In September 2007, the Council introduced one of the country's first SLL schemes, and there have been eight schemes in total. There are still schemes live in the Avenues when this report was produced. 

The private rented sector in Gateshead plays an important role in the provision of housing within the Borough and has grown significantly over the last decade and continues to grow across the borough. 

At the time of re-designation of Central Bensham in 2018, the data collection confirmed that the area was experiencing a wide range of issues associated with low housing demand, property values, anti-social behaviour and poor property conditions. 

It was considered that implementing the scheme would contribute towards the wider regeneration of the area, as well as improved property management standards. The aim was to raise standards within the private rented sector with a view to improving the overall social and economic conditions in the area to create a stable, strong, healthy and vibrant neighbourhood.