PLANS to make Boscombe landlords buy licences for their properties are set to be scrapped - but HMOs and rogue landlords could come under greater scrutiny across the borough.

The proposed selective licensing scheme would have brought in the licences bid to tackle antisocial behaviour and improve accommodation quality.

Landlords spoke out against the scheme during a 16-week public consultation held earlier this year.

At a meeting of Bournemouth's cabinet on Wednesday, November 8, councillors will be told selective licensing will not be progressed after the scheme was met with 'strong support' by residents, but opposition from landlords.

However, the representatives will consider new proposals to roll out Operation Galaxy across the borough.

The initiative, which currently operates in Boscombe, aims to tackle slum landlords and inadequate properties.

Hundreds of addresses housing vulnerable residents have been inspected as part of the scheme, and enforcement action has been taken against landlords to ensure they meet regulations.

Dedicated officers have also been targeting problematic houses of multiple occupation (HMOs) in Boscombe.

Councillor Robert Lawton, Bournemouth council cabinet member for housing, said: “I am pleased to present a proposal which considers the needs of the community in Boscombe, East Cliff and Springbourne, as well as the rest of Bournemouth.

"We remain committed to dealing with poor housing standards and inadequate management of housing in the private rented sector and the impact this has on our communities.

"We will target rogue landlords who take advantage of vulnerable tenants and will liaise closely with landlords who want to provide good quality accommodation and who work with us when things go wrong.

"This proposal will deliver what is needed for our priority areas and make a tangible difference to the lives of many of our residents.”

Cabinet will also consider a revised private sector housing enforcement policy.