Channel Tunnel Rail Link
Client
London and Continental Railways
Area of Advice
Compulsory Purchase and Compensation
Details
Drivers Jonas has worked with Union Railways Property (part of L&CR) to bring about the development of High Speed 1. Formerly known as the Channel Tunnel Rail Link, this is the high speed railway line of 109 km (68 miles) that links the Channel Tunnel in Kent with St Pancras International Station in London. It is the first major new railway in Britain for over a century.
Our Role
We have provided advice to Union Railways Property in relation to the acquisition of land that was required to construct and operate the new line. This has been in respect of commercial property interests mainly situated within a linear section of the route of over ten miles, lying between Purfleet in Essex and Southfleet in Kent. We have advised on the acquisition of numerous property interests, either by agreement or following the exercise of compulsory purchase powers under the Channel Tunnel Rail Link Act. This has involved undertaking valuations of a wide range of property types and negotiating compensation for the relocation or extinguishment costs of a diverse range of businesses.
We have been required to meet with affected parties, become familiar with their property and business requirements and work with them to seek to accommodate their concerns and mitigate the impact of the scheme on their businesses. We have advised URP on individual claimants' entitlement to compensation, provided strategic advice in relation to the implementation of CPO powers and taking possession of land and have appeared as Expert Witness, giving evidence at the Lands Tribunal where settlement of compensation through negotiation has not been possible. Our work has been complemented by that of Drivers Jonas' planning and building surveying teams, together with other external consultants including forensic accountants, plant and machinery valuers and environmental consultants, who we have worked closely with to deliver a comprehensive land assembly service.
Achievements
- Successfully delivered land to URP within budget and on time to meet the contractors' construction timetable.
- Minimised disruption and inconvenience to affected parties through the efficient handling and resolution of compensation claims.
Website
www.lcrhq.co.uk