As part of the process, purchase prices are assessed by six consultant surveyors and then presented to homeowners, but numerous cases so far have caused controversy.
With an increasing number of enquiries coming from homeowners as to what assistance they can get in dealing with HS2 Ltd in order to get a deal they feel is right for them, Leamington Spa based law firm Wright Hassall has taken action.
The nine strong team is headed up by Sarah Beer, whose family’s farm in Offchurch, Leamington, has been compulsory purchased as the line is set to go straight through it, with work starting at the end of September.
Sarah said: “There has been criticism in the media about how HS2 is handling some compulsory purchases and the money that is being made available to do this.
“There have been a number of cases where payments have been delayed and there is a feeling that HS2 is pushing the limits as to what is acceptable for the people whose lives are being affected.
“Issues have also surfaced surrounding HS2’s valuation and that of the affected person or business.
“Quite often, people feel that they have to go it alone and not seek professional advice over what they can do.
“That isn’t the case and people shouldn’t feel bullied or pressured into accepting something which isn’t what they deserve.
“The number of enquiries we are getting is increasing but we want more people to be aware of the assistance we can offer.”
The Wright Hassall HS2 advisory team is completed by Iain Johnston, John Gregory, Dawn Reynolds, Keri Harwood, Hannah Carey, Philip Harris, Eamonn Daley and Vanessa Blane, all of whom have a wealth of experience in property law.
The advisory team is helping people affected by both Phase One, of which 54km goes through Warwickshire, and Phase Two of the scheme, so can assist with enquiries across the whole line
