Conservatives have unveiled plans to help first-time buyers get a foot on the housing ladder and is initiating a search for a new model for dealing with rundown communities.

The Shadow Secretary for the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, Caroline Spelman said, "One of the biggest challenges facing this country is the fact many young people can't afford to buy a home. This is why I will be making a submission to the Policy Groups asking them to consider a new model of regenerating rundown suburban communities, and ways to offer shared ownership schemes to a wider audience."

Speaking at a meeting in Leeds, Mrs Spelman also stressed the Party's commitment to oppose the planned introduction of home information packs into property transactions, calling it a "roadblock to ownership."

Also included in the Conservative package are plans to promote more eco-friendly homes; the revitalisation of rundown suburban communities, with planning rules that encourage the building of homes with gardens and parking spaces; more accessible and flexible shared ownership schemes; and help for people in social housing to move up the property ladder.

However, David Orr, chief executive, National Housing Federation, criticised the proposals and said: "It is disappointing not to see any specific reference to more affordable rented homes to help those on the lowest incomes and in the greatest need."

"If we are serious about building sustainable communities we need to build homes that cater for all needs. This means more homes for affordable rent, low cost home ownership and outright sale."