Low-income families in south Bucks are at risk of being exploited by rogue landlords who let “poor quality accommodation” to people who have no other options, a council report has revealed.

New plans to tackle homelessness and the need for affordable homes in Chiltern and South Bucks were given the green light this week – as the councils admit to facing “huge challenges” within their housing services.

A report published by Chiltern and South Bucks district councils states the high cost of buying and renting homes in the area means more people are seeking help from the authorities, as they cannot afford pay for private housing.

The report adds there is “a high demand” for homelessness assistance in the districts, including temporary accommodation.

There is also an “increased risk” of more landlords letting “poor quality accommodation” to exploit people on low-incomes who have no other accommodation options available to them.

The two councils have produced a joint housing strategy which pledges to work to increase affordable housing in the districts as well as prevent and reduce homelessness where possible, in a bid to tackle the challenges.

Chiltern District Council approved the action plan during a meeting on Tuesday, while South Bucks District Council discussed the proposals on Wednesday.

The report states: “Since April 2014, the councils have operated a single shared housing service to deliver many of these duties across the two districts.

“This service is facing significant challenges as it moves forward. The Chiltern and South Bucks districts have some of the highest housing costs in the country (outside London) for buying and renting.

“This is placing increasing pressure on the Shared Housing Service as more people seek help from the councils because they cannot afford to secure housing in the private sector.”

A number of objectives are set out in the joint plans, including ensuring the development of the Local Plan – which sets out future housing growth in the area – addresses affordable housing requirements.

The councils are also going to work towards finding opportunities to develop more temporary accommodation on council-owned land, including mobile homes.

To view the full report and list of objectives visit http://sbdc-spider2.southbucks.gov.uk/democracy/documents/s33657/Appendix%20-%20Joint%20Housing%20Strategy.pdf