Yet another local authority is considering introducing selective licensing of private rental property.

Luton council has issued a statement saying that within its boundaries it has found properties that do not conform to its objectives of “good quality, safe, warm, affordable homes in mixed, thriving sustainable communities.”

Now it says it wants selective licensing to “act as a force to improve standards for the benefit of all residents” following claims that noise, anti-social behaviour, fly-tipping and crime have been exacerbated by private rental housing issues.

No details have yet been given of charges, but Luton authority is now consulting about introducing such a scheme for the South, Biscot, Dallow, High Town and Farley wards.

“Central government has given councils special powers to require landlords to have a licence for each property within a defined area. The aim is to improve the overall quality of private housing provision and ensure that parts of the town that are currently blighted by poor quality accommodation and issues that often go hand in hand, are eradicated and improve the quality of life for all” says a council spokesman.