Selective Licensing Scheme Evaluation, re-designated Area Central Bensham
Conclusion
At the time of designation in 2018, the data collection confirmed that the area was experiencing a wide range of issues associated with low housing demand, property values, ASB and poor property conditions. It was considered that the implementation of the scheme could 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.
The evidence and data gathered confirms that there have been substantial and notable improvements in the area, whilst the scheme was under designation.
Post scheme data confirms that the tenants are still reporting ASB and property standards to the licensing team and this has continued consistently since the end of scheme designation. This would suggest that there are still on-going issues within the area and the demand from the residents remains significant. Such demand shows that property standards and management practices could slip to pre-licensing standards without ongoing regulation.
The number of complaints and support to the area could be due to poor management practices, which can have a detrimental affect on the neighbourhood and surrounding area.
Furthermore, the data suggests that there is an under reporting to the Police in terms of crime within the area. These results could be anecdotal, and that crime is being under reported to the Police, all other factors indicate that the area is in threat of returning to pre licencing figures without further any further intervention.
Throughout the licensing scheme, the team have used the regulatory framework to address non-compliance and improved property conditions. This has been
predominantly achieved by the close level of scrutiny that is afforded by selective licensing schemes. This level of monitoring and intense working arrangement cannot be maintained without a designated licensing area as there are not the resources to deliver such an intervention as selective licensing.