The High-Speed (Crewe – Manchester) hybrid Bill was introduced into Parliament on 24 January 2022, to seek the legal powers to build and operate the next phase of Britain’s new high-speed, zero-carbon railway. The Bill process could take several years.
Agents in areas affected by these changes should ensure that they are up to date on the latest plans and able to advise land and property owners and buyers on the implications, including the compensation schemes available.
Changes have also been made to the maps of properties affected and entitled to use the property schemes for the entire western leg of the route, from the West Midlands to Manchester and Cumbria.
Crewe to Manchester section on hold
The major change is the removal from the legislation of the Golborne Link between Manchester and Crewe which would connect the new line to the existing west coast mainline. If land and/or property is owned along the area of the Golborne Link existing property safeguarding measures, for the time being, are available, which means continuing access to the full range of HS2 property schemes.
These include options for the sale of affected property and compensation payments for properties close to but not directly on the proposed route. The UK Government is now considering alternative options for this part of the project.
Property schemes now available in Scotland
The Scottish Government has also announced changes to the land associated with the Annandale Depot which was not safeguarded previously, offering options for property owners who have a compelling need to sell as a result of the plans.
HS2 public events
Letters have been sent to all owners of property affected by these changes, and face-to-face, online one-to-one, and informative events are being held across the country relating to various aspects of the HS2 and to advise on the update to Safeguarding Directions. There are also webinars about the Crewe – Manchester Bill, and the proposed changes. View the full list of events.
