There's good news for tenants and would-be home seekers in Islington this week.<br><br>At a time when many are feeling the twin impacts of price inflation and a housing shortage, Islington Council is actively seeking ways to expand the supply of housing, and champion tenants' rights. <br><br>A report entitled Improving Private Sector Housing presented to the Council's Executive on 11 September recommends new ways to extend the supply of housing, work with private landlords to bring empty properties back into use and improve the quality and safety of accommodation while championing tenants' rights.<br><br>Islington is already the leading borough in the reduction of empty homes and has been named Regional Homelessness Champion by the government for its successful work in preventing homelessness by finding good quality homes in the private sector.<br><br>Cllr Terry Stacy, Executive Member for Housing and Community Safety at Islington Council, doesn't believe the council should rest on its laurels. He said:<br><br>"Private housing has an increasingly important role in meeting housing needs in Islington. The private rented sector makes up almost a quarter of all tenures in Islington and with comparatively low levels of owner-occupation it means there is a healthy private rented sector, from bedsits to flats to houses.<br><br>"By working with private sector landlords we have helped manage supply to meet demand, bringing more empty properties back into use and raising housing standards to ensure the private sector continues to provide sustainable housing options for people of all backgrounds.<br><br>"We will not tolerate properties lying empty when there are people in need who could live in them."<br><br>The council holds quarterly private sector landlord forums to keep landlords up to date and on their toes to ensure they maintain high standards. The next forum will take place on 25th September, 6.00 pm, in the Town Hall. All landlords and agents are welcome.<br><br>"Making landlords more professional and empowering private sector tenants is also a clear priority for us. Private tenants should have their say," said Cllr Stacy. <br><br>ENDS <br><br>For more information please call Chris Weeks on 020 7527 3032 or Charles Dean on 020 7527 3224
Page Last Updated: 17 December 2009