This follows an investigation carried out by the council, during which it was discovered that several properties across the Everton West (L3), Toxteth (L8) and Canning (L7) wards were let without the required HMO licences.

The prosecuted firms also failed to comply with notices requested by the Council under the Housing Act 2004 and the Local Government (miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976.

The fines were issued at a sentencing hearing at Liverpool Magistrates Court on 15th April — the companies and directors receiving fines, which amount to almost £260,000, are:

• Trophy Homes Limited — fined £82,500 plus costs of £1,176 
• 231 Victoria Limited – fined £10,000 plus costs of £354 
• Citipoint Limited – fined £30,000 plus costs of £366 
• West Village Liverpool Limited – fined £20,000, plus costs of £274 
• Sean Broadhurst – fined £33,000, plus costs of £1,060 
• Robert Broadhurst – fined £33,000, plus costs of £527 
• Maria Helena Broadhurst – fined £33,000, plus costs of £436 

All prosecuted firms and individuals are also required to pay a £2,000 victim surcharge each.

All of the companies charged were registered at the same address, with either Sean, Robert or Maria Helena Broadhurst, listed as the company’s officers.

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