LANDLORDS in Rossendale are being encouraged to sign up to a scheme set up to improve conditions in the private sector.

Rossendale Council is helping to promote the voluntary Landlord Accreditation Scheme, which sets out minimum design, safety and contractual standards when tenants rent accommodation.

Landlords can use the accreditation to promote their premises as part of their lettings service when they are members of the scheme.

The authority is working together with four East Lancashire council's including Blackburn with Darwen, Burnley, Hyndburn, Pendle, on a project to improve private rented accommodation across the boroughs.