A package of measures, backed by £1.8 million from the Scottish Government, will help revitalise Glasgow's Govanhill.

A total of £1.5 million is earmarked to refurbish and redesign the backcourts of Govanhill tenement blocks, creating training and employment opportunities for local residents. A property acquisition strategy will also be developed by Glasgow City Council and Govanhill Housing Association.

This will complement the Council's investment in the area and also support the development of small enterprises through the development of recycling and environmental initiatives.

A special enforcement squad, backed by £300,000 over two years, will also help root out rogue landlords exploiting tenants in the area.

The team, comprising council staff backed by police and fire officers, will crack down on unregistered landlords and strictly enforce environmental health laws.

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If successful, this method of enforcement could be rolled out by other local authorities across the country.

Any landlord operating a House of Multiple Occupation (HMO) without a licence - a criminal offence - faces a maximum penalty of £5,000. Next year, changes to legislation will increase the fine to £20,000.

Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: "This funding will help to breathe new life into Govanhill. The area has been plagued by unscrupulous private landlords who flout the law by renting out flats, which are overcrowded and fall below the tolerable standard.

"I am aware that local residents have demanded more action to deal with landlords that have, for too long, been trading in misery. It is time to draw a line in the sand and create an enforcement squad that will pursue rogue landlords in Govanhill."

In May, Govanhill Housing Association (GHHA) submitted a proposal to the Scottish Government to develop an employability programme linked to the environmental sustainability of Govanhill.

The Scottish Government investment of £1.5 million is over 2 years - £1 million this year and £0.5 million in 2011-12.

The enforcement team will strengthen the Council's existing powers by reporting unregistered landlords to the Procurator Fiscal, suspending a tenant's liability to pay rent and where the landlord is found to be not fit and proper, refuse registration.

(GK)