A councillor says that his authority’s consultation exercise about landlord licensing is important because no decision has been taken already.

Burnley council is inviting residents, landlords, businesses and community organisations to have their say on proposals for selective licensing in three areas of the borough. 

The consultation will run until Sunday October 18 and a statement from the authority says: “The proposed schemes aim to help protect tenants’ rights, improve living conditions, tackle antisocial behaviour and reduce problems such as fly-tipping and untidy back yards. 

“They would also support work to bring empty homes back into use and help create more stable and sustainable communities.”

Councillor Howard Baker, the council’s executive member for housing and development control, says:  “No final decision has been made. 

“This consultation is about listening, looking at the evidence and making sure residents, landlords, businesses and partners have the chance to help shape the next steps.” 

He says the council existing selective licensing team “does excellent work with residents, landlords and partners to raise standards in privately rented housing and support better neighbourhoods.” 

And he adds: “Many landlords work hard and want to do the right thing. Selective licensing helps us support good landlords, while giving us the tools to deal with poor property management where it affects tenants and communities.

“We want people in the proposed areas to tell us what they think, what they experience locally and what support they feel is needed.