We have recently concluded the last of the Farm Impact Assessment Interviews with a large number of our Clients and are now awaiting the Farm packs from HS2 Ltd. 

This agreement has improved terms and more beneficial payments than the standard HS2 Ltd early access agreement.  The agreements are for a two year term; this is so that when the Phase One Hybrid Bill is enacted (expected at the end of this year) then although HS2 Ltd will have the power of survey, our Clients will still be covered by this agreement.”

Liz goes on to say that the information collected from the farm impact assessment interviews and surveys will be fed into the Environmental Statement, which in turn will form part of the documentation submitted into Parliament as part of the proposed HS2 Phase 2a Hybrid Bill.  “We are expecting a draft Environmental Statement during the Autumn of this year and the Phase 2a Hybrid Bill to be deposited into Parliament during 2017.”

As part of the work for the Hybrid Bill, Representatives of HS2 Ltd are now starting to send out Land Interest Questionnaires to those affected by Phase 2a.  Liz informs that If you need any assistance with these then please do contact her.  “Our understanding is that HS2 Ltd will pay for up to two hours of our time providing assistance to clients with completion of these questionnaires.”

A route announcement is expected in respect to the remainder of the Phase 2 route this Autumn.  This is the portion of the HS2 scheme from Crewe to Manchester (Western leg) and Birmingham to Leeds (Eastern leg).  Now is the time to make preparations to minimise the impact of the scheme on your business.  The work being undertaken for Phase 2a is much the same as that undertaken for Phase One of HS2; and the same tasks will no doubt need to be carried out in preparation for the building of the remainder of the Phase 2 route.

Liz Farrall at the Stafford office says, “We are being contacted more and more by those whose properties and lives are impacted by the HS2 scheme; those who need to minimise the impact of the scheme on their businesses, as well as those who for example are outside of the safeguarded are and can’t sell their properties due to the HS2 scheme”.  If you require advice and assistance in regard to HS2 or other compensation matters, then please contact Liz Farrall at the Stafford office on 01785 275392/07918 677575, liz.farrall@fishergerman.co.uk.

Fisher German are a leading national firm with a strong local presence.  Our local team have the expertise to provide the best possible service for our Clients; with both the resource and skill base available from across our fifteen offices.