Liverpool Cabinet Set to Approve Major Measures to Improve Housing Standards and Boost Home Ownership

Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet could give the green light to a series of measures designed to improve housing conditions across the city, bring empty homes back into use, and make it easier for residents to gain full ownership of their properties.

At the next Cabinet meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, 5 May, councillors will be asked to approve a consultation on proposals covering selective licensing in the private rented sector.

As well as a new strategy for tackling long-term empty homes, and the continuation of the council’s freehold sales programme for long leaseholders.

Shaping the Future of Selective Licensing

The first of the three schemes involves a city-wide public consultation on the next phase of selective licensing after 2027. 

Selective licensing requires private landlords in designated areas to hold a licence and meet specific standards. 

The scheme is currently used to tackle poor living conditions and protect tenants.

Residents, landlords, and agents will be asked for their views on whether a future scheme should remains city-wide or be targeted at specific neighbourhoods. 

A final decision will be taken by Cabinet following the consultation period.

Cabinet will also consider a new approach to addressing long-term empty homes, which continue to cause blight in many neighbourhoods.

The proposed plans combine stronger enforcement powers, including enforced sales and compulsory purchase orders, with a new grant scheme.

Under these proposals, owners could access funding to renovate empty properties, with the expectation that they are brought back into use as affordable rented housing where possible. 

Cllr Hetty Wood, Cabinet Member for Housing, said:

“Selective licensing has helped to raise standards and protect tenants in some of our communities. 

“This consultation is an important next step, giving residents and landlords the chance to shape how we continue that work in the future. 

“Meanwhile, empty homes bring problems for streets and communities, particularly when housing need is so high. 

“These measures will help us take firm action where needed, while also supporting owners who want to do the right thing and bring homes back into use.”

Support for Homeowners and Leaseholders

The third scheme seeks agreement to continue the council’s freehold sales programme. 

This allows long-leaseholders of single residential properties to buy the freehold of their homes at a fixed price, providing more security and making it easier to sell or remortgage.

Cllr Nick Small, Cabinet Member for Growth and Economy, said:

“For many residents, having a long lease rather than owning the freehold outright is an unnecessary complication that can make it harder to sell, remortgage or simply feel secure in their own home. 

“This programme gives people a clear, affordable route to full ownership, removes red tape and brings certainty where it’s been missing for too long. 

“It’s proven to be popular because it’s straightforward, transparent and fair. 

“At the same time, it ensures the Council gets best value for assets that come with ongoing legal and administrative costs. 

“It’s a practical solution that works for residents and for the city as a whole.”