DUDLEY Council has been shortlisted for a national planning award for cracking down on rogue landlords.

The problem properties programme is run in conjunction with West Midlands Police and tackles borough landlords who have sub-divided properties in multiple bedsits, without relevant consents. Council enforcement officers from the planning department are working with benefit fraud, building control and private sector housing teams to lead on the new initiative.

It has also helped to highlight the status of tenants at such properties, who are statistically more likely to be involved in petty crimes and fraudulent benefit claims.

As a result of the operation, which started last year, a number of benefit claims have been withdrawn and notices have been served on five properties for unauthorised change of use.

The programme has also resulted in a prosecution for failure to comply with enforcement notices and a landlord fine of £12,000.

Councillor Judy Foster, cabinet member for regeneration, said: “This operation proves what can be achieved when we work together to create a more efficient and effective enforcement process.

“We take planning enforcement issues very seriously and I would like to congratulate everyone who has been involved with this important programme.”

Sergeant Rob Simpson from West Midlands Police added: “This work has been carried out to ensure landlords provide both a suitable and appropriate level of accommodation for any tenants and as such will have a positive impact on their quality of life.

“It has also assisted us in combating criminal activity in the area.”

The council will find out if it has won the Planning Enforcement Award on November 18.