A NEW initiative has been launched towards improving the image of the private rented property sector in Hyndburn.

Local private landlords, residents' association representatives and Hyndburn Borough Council are now meeting regularly as partners in the Hyndburn Landlords' Forum to tackle problems by sharing them and jointly exploring new solutions.

The Forum is working to tackle some of the issues highlighted in the Government's recent proposals to introduce selective licensing of private sector landlords in some areas.

It is already considering setting up information-sharing between landlords to enable them to manage their letting policies more effectively.

The Forum is also working directly with the Council on the feasibility of some form of landlord accreditation in Hyndburn.

Coun Marion Raynor, chairman of the Council's Neighbourhood Renewal Panel, attended the last meeting.

She said: "I welcome the forum as an opportunity to share ideas and to work out practical ways of improving the quality of life for all Hyndburn residents."