A SCHEME aiming to improve housing in a North-East town will be launched.

Darlington Borough Council is planning a landlord accreditation initiative as part of efforts to reverse the spiral of decline in some of its most deprived wards.

Officials believe that by working closely with private sector landlords, minimum standards for conditions and housing management can be set.

There are about 3,600 privately rented properties in Darlington, but the number and identity of all landlords is not known to the council.

Community services director Cliff Brown said: "This leaves a gap in our understanding of the type, location and ownership of this accommodation that can make an effective contribution to meeting housing needs in Darlington.

"An accreditation scheme will lead to improved recording and mapping of private rented housing, because landlords will have to make their properties known if they are to be accredited."

Properties being put forward for the scheme would have to be inspected.

For landlords owning six or more properties, only a selection would be scrutinised.

Incentives for landlords to join the scheme will include discounts on fire safety equipment and insurance, as well as free advertising of accredited property.