MP calls for urgent rent reforms (From Darlington and Stockton Times)

Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland MP Tom Blenkinsop calls for urgent rent reforms

12:13pm Friday 1st February 2013 in News By Joanna Morris

A TEESSIDE MP is calling for urgent rent reforms after reports of soaring costs in his constituency.

Research recently released from housing and homelessness charity Shelter shows rent in Middlesbrough has increased 3.4 per cent in a year, rising by the equivalent of £171 between 2011 and 2012.

The charity’s report describes a ‘rent trap’ that sees people stuck in a cycle of renting due to increased costs at a time when average wages remain static.

Tom Blenkinsop, MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, said: “It is apt that the report labels it as a ‘rent trap’. The current situation seriously compromises any aspiring first-time buyers ability to get on the property ladder when deposits for mortgages costs tens of thousands, whilst all the time rent prices are rising so they are able to save less towards their deposit. It’s an extremely frustrating and sad situation.

“Urgent action is needed to make the market more affordable, building affordable homes and developing better protections for those who are long-term private renters - where landlords can rely on the tenant to pay the bill on time and keep the property in a good condition. It is a growing problem that seriously needs dealing with.”