ROGUE landlords are being targeted by Darlington Borough Council thanks to a funding boost to help tackle rundown rental properties.

The council has been awarded £59,300 from the government which will go towards developing a database of areas in Darlington where there are high concentrations of private rented accommodation in poor condition.

This improved intelligence will support the council in its bid to tackle low standard private rented homes and the rogue landlords who rent them out.

The worst areas will be targeted first with robust enforcement action.

A second stage will then focus on specific areas of deprivation and poor housing including Northgate, North Road and Park East areas.

A final stage will see additional specialist training for staff to enable more proactive enforcement action against bad landlords.

Councillor Jonathan Dulston, cabinet member for stronger communities, said: “We’re delighted to have secured financial support from the government for this initiative which will help us to develop an intelligence-led approach to identify the worst landlords who will then be challenged through effective and robust enforcement.

“It will also allow us to target properties where there are vulnerable households; dwellings in poor condition, households facing fuel poverty and Houses in Multiple Occupation that require a licence.

“Ultimately, the work of our officers will help provide better living conditions for the most vulnerable residents across Darlington. Financial penalties imposed will be reinvested in improving housing conditions for all residents.”

There are around 50,780 households across Darlington with about 9,000 privately rented. Under the Housing and Planning Act 2016, a landlord can be fined up to £30,000 if found guilty of offences such as failing to comply with an improvement notice.

Darlington Council was one of more than 100 local authorities to be awarded a share of more than £4m.