£500k proposed for neighbourhood upgrades in selective landlord licensing areas
Plans to spend £500,000 on neighbourhood improvements such as crime-prevention measures, environmental upgrades and new local infrastructure in areas covered by Rotherham Council’s expanded selective landlord licensing scheme have been set out in new council budget proposals.
The funding would be spent in neighbourhoods covered by Rotherham’s selective landlord licensing scheme, including parts of the town centre, Eastwood, East Dene, Clifton, Masbrough, Kimberworth, Thurcroft, Dinnington, Brinsworth and Parkgate
According to council documents, the money could be spent on measures such as alterations to buildings or walls to “design out” opportunities for crime, improvements to public spaces, and infrastructure such as new litter bins. The investment would not be used to fund repairs or upgrades to individual rental properties, which would remain the responsibility of landlords.
Officers say the spending is intended to support the selective licensing scheme by tackling wider environmental and safety issues in neighbourhoods with high levels of private rented housing, alongside enforcement action against poor landlords.
The funding would be split over five years, with £100,000 a year allocated to projects identified through new consultation groups made up of ward councillors, residents, tenants and landlords. These groups would help decide the scheme’s priorities and oversee delivery of the schemes.