Tighter controls on landlords in Redbridge have moved a step closer to becoming a reality after cabinet members approved plans for a statutory consultation.   

The proposal for a selective licensing scheme, led by portfolio member for housing councillor Muhammed Javed, was approved during the meeting at Ilford Town Hall last night. 

A 12-week consultation with tenants, landlords, residents and estate agents will start later this month. 

Newham, Barking and Dagenham and Waltham Forest councils have all become designated licensing areas and council leader councillor Jas Athwal has said that Redbridge must follow suit otherwise it will become "a safe haven for people banned or thrown out of other boroughs."

Under the plans to be consulted, each private property must apply for a five-year licence at the discounted price of £250 for the first three months of it being introduced, or £500 thereafter.  

Its primary aim is to tackle the 'significant and persistent' problem of anti-social behaviour and to improve the quality and standard of accommodation. 

But Richard Blanco, a representative of the National Landlord Association (NLA) and private landlord in Ilford told cabinet members "we know from other boroughs it will be the good landlords that pay the fee and the council will still have to identify criminal operators. 

"Neighbouring Newham has licensed over 21,000 landlords but only 17 properties were found not to be fitted properly."  

Almost a quarter or 23 per cent of homes in Redbridge are made up by the private rented sector-representing 24,000 households.  

Mr Blanco suggested landlord costs could lead to increased rents. 

Cllr Javed defended the proposal arguing it is needed to "raise standards for tenants and their neighbours. 

"All we are asking is to agree to consult."