Covid-19 restrictions extend Private Rented Housing consultation

Earlier this year I published an article on this site setting out details of how Durham County Council would consult the public on its proposed Selective Licensing Scheme (SLS) which is intended to hold landlords in the private rented sector accountable for the condition of their properties and the conduct of their tenants (please see post dated Monday 17 February 2020 for full details of the consultation and the background to the SLS).

Unfortunately, due to issues caused by the current Covid-19 pandemic restrictions, the consultation period has had to be extended to Sunday 2 August 2020. Naturally this will be frustrating for the residents of Blackhall and other towns and villages throughout the county who continue to face disruption caused by the tenants of irresponsible landlords, many of whom have no connection to or interest in our village.

However, the reason behind the extension is beyond the control of the council so it's better to use the additional time to give those of our residents who might have missed the opportunity earlier this year another chance to submit their comments about the proposed SLS and the impact it might have on our communities.

Full details about the SLS and the consultation exercise can be found on Durham County Council's website. The link below will take you straight to the relevant page:

http://www.durham.gov.uk/article/22640/Consultation-on-licensing-of-privately-rented-homes-in-some-areas-of-the-county