HS2: if your property is affected
Published 10 January 2012
© Crown copyright 2012
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We have written to all owners of properties that are very close to the proposed line of the route to inform them of the government’s decision, and the potential need to compulsorily purchase their property.
On the currently anticipated programme, construction will start around 2016 and the line will be operational from 2026. Later this year we will be commencing a comprehensive land referencing exercise to identify and confirm all property interests affected by the route.
The properties that are very close to the line of the route, and therefore may need to be acquired for the scheme would not be needed before 2015 at the earliest, but individuals may be able to bring this forward should they so wish.
In due course property owners will be contacted by representatives of HS2 Ltd, the company established to deliver the project. This would be to discuss the particular circumstances concerning their property and the process and arrangements that may apply regarding the potential future acquisition of all (or part) of their property, a process known as ‘compulsory purchase’.
There is already in place a statutory code for compulsory purchase of property required for major public infrastructure schemes. This sets out rights to compensation and other arrangements and there are a set of booklets published by the Department for Communities and Local government (CLG), which provide clear advice on this complex area.
Alternatively, you can call the CLG publications line on 0300 123 1124 between 8am and 8pm between Monday to Friday and ask to be mailed a free copy of the compulsory purchase booklets.
In addition to the statutory compensation code, the secretary of state has asked that proposals for discretionary measures be brought forward, aimed at mitigating as far as is reasonably possible, the effect of the project on property markets, and on peoples’ lives. We will make further announcements about these proposals as soon as possible, but can confirm that they will include:
- a sale and rent back scheme for properties required for compulsory purchase, which would give people more choice as to when they left their property
- the advance payment of a compensation claim, for example, to aid relocation
Further information on these proposals can be found in the Review of Property Issues document that was published alongside the announcement of the decision. Hard copies can be obtained by calling DfT Publications on 0300 123 1334.
HS2 Ltd will proceed swiftly to recruit staff and to appoint agents that can act on its behalf at a local level.
It is expected that these individuals will have started work by the summer of 2012 and that they will contact you in due course.
In the meantime, if you have issues or concerns that you need to discuss immediately, then please contact the HS2 Ltd Enquiries Line on 020 7944 4908.