POLICE have back-tracked on a decision to sell off police housing in the wake of falling numbers of officers applying for jobs in the area because of high house prices. Although since 1994 the force has not been obliged to provide recruits with accommodation, they have now "reserved" a number of houses for single and married officers. Initially Thames Valley Police sold off 20 properties in South Bucks, even though some officers were struggling to pay for private accommodation. However, around 25 houses are still in police authority ownership in Chalfont St Peter, Amersham, Marlow and Holmer Green. And they have ruled out selling the remaining housing stock while they review the needs of new recruits. Terri Teasdale, director of personnel, finance and services at Thames Valley Police, said: "Properties falling vacant which are declared surplus to requirements are normally offered for sale initially to staff and subsequently on the open market. "At present there is a moratorium on further house sales whilst a review is undertaken to establish future housing needs of recruits." At present the average price of a house in South Buckinghamshire is £250,000 and many police officers are deciding to join the Metropolitan Police which takes into account the high cost of living in the south when paying their wages.

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