Partner Article

Specialist team to advise property owners over HS2

Scanlans has formed a specialist team to advise homeowners and business people in the north west whose properties face being blighted or demolished because of the HS2 high-speed rail scheme.

Experts based in the property management and surveying firm’s Manchester office will negotiate with the relevant authorities to secure compensation for clients.

The team is experienced in dealing with compulsory purchase claims and advising owners whose properties may be subject to blight because proposed schemes such as HS2 affect their saleability and value.

The government recently announced the preferred route for the next phase of HS2, which will see the line run from Crewe to Manchester and from the West Midlands to Leeds.

Scanlans chairman Ian Stanistreet said: “Setting aside the political debate, there is no doubting the impact this major infrastructure programme will have on owners and occupiers of affected properties and land.

“The government will use its compulsory purchase order powers to acquire land and buildings where necessary, with a large sum of money earmarked for compensation.

“The main principle is that people must not be left worse off financially than had the scheme not gone ahead.

“Additional compensation may also be due, over and above the value of their property, and all legal and surveying fees will be paid.”

Ian added that many people are unaware they can force the relevant authority to buy their property if it can be proven it is blighted by the scheme.

Scanlans partner Paul Long added: “Whatever the benefits from the HS2 scheme, it’s vital that homeowners and businesses suffering losses should be duly compensated and properly represented.

“Our team of experienced professionals can provide the initial advice they need.

“Professional fees will form part of the compensation package, so advice should not cost them, and I would urge them to be wary of employing advisers who require direct payment of their fees.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Scanlans .