Central Gateshead licensing scheme

The Central Gateshead Phase 1 Licensing scheme ran from May 2012-May 2017. At the time of designation in 2012, 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 the schemes implementation would contribute towards the wider regeneration of the area, as well as improved property management standards.

• Central Gateshead selective licensing area map (PDF) [443KB] (opens new window)

The operation and performance of the scheme against its aims and objectives has now been evaluated. In the lead up to scheme expiry a full consultation with all landlords, residents and other stakeholders was undertaken.

• Central Gateshead licensing scheme evaluation (PDF) [3MB] (opens new window)

During the consultation 86% of responding residents told us that landlord licensing should continue either across the whole area or parts of it. 50% of responding landlords also agreed that continued licensing should be considered.

Key interventions included:

(a) Campaigns carried out to raise awareness of problems of refuse in gardens, yards and rear lanes, and poor property condition.

(b) 59 enforcement notices served, and over 350 letters sent to landlords and owners to tackle poor housing and environmental issues.

(c) Targeted work to minimise anti-social behaviour.

(d) Property inspections to assess and improve housing conditions.

(e) Annual reviews of Licences to ensure property and tenancy management standards are being maintained.

Key outputs include:

(f) 509 number of properties licensed.

(g) 201 number of properties within the Scheme area have been Accredited, during the course of the Scheme, under the Council's voluntary property Accreditation Scheme, that encourages the improvement of rented property standards beyond that required as a basic legal minimum.

(h) Over 70% of landlords, who own rental properties within the Scheme area, are now members of a landlord association.

(i) 75 number long term empty properties have been brought back into use.

Key outcomes have included:

(j) 79% of the licensable private rented stock within the Scheme area have reached the Council's property Accreditation Standard.

(k) 51% reduction in complaints about private rented property condition, received by the Council's Private Sector Housing Team.

(l) Multiple turnover rates within the area have more than halved

(m) ASB rates reported to Northumbria Police have reduced

(n) Legal action in relation to four private landlords representing six private rented homes. Five of these cases were in relation to failing to apply for a licence with fines of up to £1000 and the sixth in relation to a licence holder who failed to deal appropriately with anti-social tenants who was fined £10,000.

(o) Over £8,000 of reclaimed housing benefit payments through Rent Repayment Orders for unlicensed properties.