Government backs call for action to reclaim control of communities

30th June 2025, Westminster

Luke Myer MP has raised concerns in the House of Commons about unscrupulous landlords “dumping individuals with serious criminal histories” in villages in East Cleveland, including parts of Brotton and Carlin How.

During the Housing, Communities and Local Government Questions session, Luke emphasised his call for the introduction of selective licensing in his constituency to help the local council take back control of their communities.

In response, Alex Norris MP, Minister for Building Safety and Local Growth, confirmed that the government supports selective licensing, saying:
 “The government supports selective licensing as a tool to tackle the impact of poor housing management on communities. The general approval we granted in December gives councils full powers to introduce schemes regardless of their size. My honourable friend’s own authority will have heard loud and clear his call for them to consider doing so.”

Selective licensing allows councils to require landlords to obtain a licence to rent out properties in certain areas. It ensures that landlords meet minimum standards of property management, including tenant safety and the prevention of anti-social behaviour.

Luke Myer MP said:
“Residents in East Cleveland are fed up with the impact of irresponsible landlords, driving down standards and dumping dodgy tenants in our proud villages. Selective licensing would help hold landlords accountable and protect our communities. It’s a practical solution to improve housing standards and reduce crime in our villages.”

Luke has met with Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council and asked them to consider introducing the scheme to help restore order to East Cleveland’s affected villages.

References

• Selective Licensing: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/selective-licensing
• Housing, Communities and Local Government Questions, Commons Debate – 30th June 2025: Parliament TV (15:24:00)