A dedicated research centre for the private rented sector in England and Wales could be on the cards.

The charitable arm of the Tenancy Deposit Scheme has expressed interest in funding a feasibility study.

The trustees of the TDS Charitable Foundation have extended the deadline for the current round of funding and are now welcoming funding applications until August 10.

The Foundation works to advance education about housing rights and obligations in the private rented sector, and because of this extended deadline, available funding for bids has been increased from the usual £50,000 to £70,000.

The Foundation is particularly looking to support bids which promote knowledge of landlords’ obligations or tenants’ rights and responsibilities, but also to look at the feasibility of establishing a dedicated research centre for the private rented sector in England and Wales.

Organisations can download an application form and view the bidding criteria online at www.tdsfoundation.org.uk