People buying and selling houses in west Oxfordshire are being hit by long delays because of changes to the property search system carried out by their district council.

According to one estate agent, the delays are "causing havoc and unnecessary stress," and could mean some clients losing a sale.

Councils are obliged to inform estate agents and others involved in property transactions about matters like new roads or housing being built nearby.

Searches that usually take eight to 10 working days are now taking about five weeks.

The changeover to fully computerised "e-government" has come at a time when the council's land charges section is understaffed. It is also the busiest time of year for the property market.

Senior planning officer Ian Morrow apologised for the delays but promised there would soon be a better, faster system.

Estate agents in the area did not want to be quoted by name because they say they depend on being on good terms with the department.

One told the Oxford Mail: "The delay affects clients' moving dates, will mean that some lose their properties if they cannot meet dates where builders are involved, and where people are trying to buy at auction. It also affects the cash flow of companies involved."

Another said: "One client of mine was left waiting for eight weeks. The gall is that the council is increasing the charges from £92 to £100 for a basic search."

Several estate agents and solicitors have complained to Witney's MP David Cameron who said: "I am assured this is just a slight hitch."