More details are emerging about a plan to expand licensing of landlords in Jesmond, and the reaction so far is decidedly mixed, with some predicting the proposals could cost landlords around £2,500 per property.
Tenants renting houses and flats in Jesmond say they hope contentious proposals by Newcastle City Council will prevent landlords from letting out dirty, damaged and dangerous properties.
A national body representing landlords claims rents will rise in areas like Jesmond if Newcastle City Council expands its licensing activities to landlords. It also says the scheme will fail to improve housing conditions.
Restricting students to purpose-built accommodation would make them vulnerable to crime, reports Caroline Howley