Halton Borough Council is launching a public consultation on plans to introduce a selective licensing scheme targeting private rented properties in areas of both towns, aiming to improve housing conditions for tenants. "The scheme will cover more than 40 per cent of the borough's private rental housing and will include the borough’s oldest and least energy efficient housing stock. The council says it has gathered evidence showing that there are higher concentrations of poor housing conditions and deprivation in certain wards with more private rented properties. Dr Ifeoma Onyia, director of public health for Halton, said: “Housing is one of the most important determinants of health. "Poor housing conditions, such as damp, mould, and excess cold, can have a significant impact on both physical and mental health and cause or exacerbate health conditions, particularly respiratory and cardiovascular disease.