en.Wedoany.com Reported - The Cabinet of Liverpool City Council in the UK has recently formally approved a series of housing policies, covering public consultation on selective licensing, a scheme to improve vacant properties, and the extension of a freehold sales scheme.

The Council Cabinet has decided to launch a public consultation on the future of selective licensing in the private rented sector. The current selective licensing scheme covers approximately 80% of the city's private rented properties and is due to expire in 2027. Councillor Hetty Wood, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: "Selective licensing has helped raise standards in some of our neighbourhoods and protect tenants. This consultation is an important next step, giving residents and landlords the chance to shape how we continue this work in the future."

Another housing policy is the Vacant Property Improvement Scheme, valued at £7.3 million. There are currently 10,378 vacant properties within the Liverpool City Council area. The scheme includes four policies, covering enforcement measures such as vacant property management, enforced sale, and compulsory purchase, as well as grant funding options for owners. Owners can apply for funding to refurbish vacant properties, with the homes expected to be brought back into use as affordable rental housing. Councillor Wood said: "Empty properties cause problems for streets and communities, especially when housing demand is so high."

The Council also approved the continuation of the Freehold Sales Scheme, which is also an important component of the housing policies. The scheme allows long leaseholders of single residential properties to purchase the freehold of their home at a fixed price. Since its launch in 2021, it has attracted 1,008 participants. The current additional fee is £1,200, bringing the total cost for buyers to just over £2,000. Councillor Nick Small, Cabinet Member for Growth and Economy, said: "The scheme provides people with a clear, affordable route to full ownership, removing red tape and bringing certainty where it has long been missing."

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