A Staffordshire MP is calling on the Government to reveal how many homeowners and businesses remain uncompensated for what he calls “seizure of land” for the HS2 rail project.
Sir Gavin Williamson says that under the law those subject to compulsory purchase orders should be entitled to 90 per cent of the price their property is valued at by HS2 when they move out – even if they are disputing the valuation.
But the MP for South Staffordshire, pictured above, says he is receiving reports that this is not happening and many are suffering “ruin as a result”.
The former Education Secretary says he stands with residents and businesspeople affected and has formally called on the Government to reveal how many people have been subject to compulsory property seizures by HS2 but are yet to receive compensation.
In response, HS2 said it always aimed to pay compensation on a fair and timely basis but indicated that the 90 per cent valuation pay out had to be triggered by the property owner submitting an application in advance with supporting evidence.
Sir Gavin, who has been selected as the Conservative candidate for the new constituency of Stone, Great Wyrley and Penkridge at the next election, claimed many homeowners, farmers and small-businesses in and around Stone and other areas of Staffordshire are facing economic hardship after HS2 seized their property without providing any compensation.
He added: “The seizure of land and properties by HS2 without owners receiving compensation is simply unacceptable.
“Not only is this project costing the taxpayer billions, but it is costing communities in Staffordshire their livelihoods and economic security. HS2 has much to answer for, and I will continue to ask the Government these questions until our voices are heard.”
His comments follow a meeting he held with officials from both the Treasury and 10 Downing Street to discuss the impact that the multi-billion-pound rail project is having on communities in the West Midlands.
HS2 said that all property cases are different and some, like farms, more complex, which can lead to different opinions between owners, their advisors and HS2 about a property’s value.
In cases where a final price has not been agreed at the point of possession, current legislation allows HS2 to pay 90 per cent of its value estimate. However, this requires an application to be made in advance alongside supporting evidence and documentation.
An HS2 spokesperson said: “HS2 endeavours to pay claimants fair and timely compensation.
“The legal process requires affected parties to submit evidence-based claims for their losses and we can only pay compensation once sufficient information is provided.
“We encourage people affected by compulsory purchase to take professional advice early to support their claims. The reasonable costs of such advisors are paid for by HS2 Ltd.”
Daily Focus has also contacted the Department for Transport for a statement and is awaiting a response.
Sir Gavin’s comments come just days after an infrastructure watchdog rated the HS2 rail line as “unachievable”.
The rating was made by the Infrastructure and Project Authority who gave the project a “red” warning for its first two phases from London to Birmingham then onto Crewe.
The warning was made in the IPA’s Annual Report on Major Projects published in July.
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce says it continues to support the HS2 scheme – seeing it as an essential economic link and a vital cog in the UK’s Levelling Up machinery, which provides opportunities for local businesses and employment.
However, it is also keen to ensure the building of the project is not to the detriment of existing rail services that are used by Staffordshire commuters.
