Purpose

To consider the report of the Cabinet
Member for Housing Operations seeking approval for the designation
of an additional licensing scheme for Houses in Multiple Occupation
(HMOs) for the wards Banister and Polygon, Bevois, Bargate, Portswood, Shirley, Bassett, Freemantle, Shirley
and Millbrook. 

Decision

(i) 
To note the outcome of the public consultation, which has taken
place in accordance with the Housing Act 2004 and to consider and
take into account the consultation
responses in making a decision on this
matter.
(ii) 
Subject to (i) above to approve the
designation for an additional HMO licensing scheme in Banister
& Polygon, Bevois, Bargate,
Portswood, Swaythling, Bassett, Freemantle, Shirley &
Millbrook wards to take effect from September 2025 for five years.
In which all houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) are to be
licensed, apart from section 257 HMOs and buildings exempted by
schedule 14 of the Housing Act 2004.
(iii) 
To delegate authority to the Executive Director for Resident
Services, following consultation with the relevant cabinet member,
to approve any changes to the Councils HMO licensing Policy,
general conditions, fees & charges, procedures as amended and
or extended as set out above required in connection with the said
designation.