WORKING together is key to resolving problems surrounding shared houses in Warwick district.
From uncollected rubbish and fly tipping to noise, the number of houses of multiple occupation (HMOs) are an increasing source of complaints – particularly in south Leamington.
The cross-party Task and Finish group formed last year has now published a report which says it is vital all departments at Warwick District Council work together to tackle problems.
The number of HMOs in the district is already monitored by a planning policy which details how many HMOs should be allowed within a certain area – but implementing the policy needs better regulation according to the report.
Group member Coun Kristie Naimo said: “One of our key recommendations is proper enforcement on waste.
“Part of the waste issue is at the end of tenancy when rubbish is left uncollected. These issues cross over multiple departments and the information and support can be confusing so we want to help people with that.
“If there is a noise issue it is the responsibility of the landlord to see to it, just like it rubbish isn’t being properly dealt with.
Council chiefs are now studying the report.
Coun Naimo added: “The report will be reviewed in a year to look at it’s progress and any changes which could be implemented. Our work won’t stop just because the report has been published. These aren’t issues which will be resolved overnight.
Len Mackin from the south Leamington residents association ‘SoLAR’ welcomed the report.
He commented: “We are pleased the hard work put into this by the all-party Task and Finish group.
“Residents have put up with too much for too long and we need to see that our issues are being addressed at last. Let’s hope that the proposals put forward in in the report are fully implemented.”
SoLAR is holding a public meeting at the Life Community Church on Charlotte Street, Leamington on Monday April 24, from 7.45pm.
Andy Jones, district council deputy chief executive, will respond to questions and members of the Task and Finish Group will present their findings.
