09/04/2014

HS2 Compensation Announced For Homeowners

A new set of compensation packages for homeowners and businesses who will be located near the HS2 high-speed rail link have been unveiled.

The packages will be made available – even if those affected do not want to move from their property or premises, it is understood.

Under the new plans, the state would buy properties within 60 metres of the line at their full market value plus 10%. For homes up to 120 metres away, who do not want to move, they would be eligible for a payment of 10% of the home's value.

The changes are to be consulted, but are expected to be in force from next year.

For homes and small businesses up to 60 metres of the line, it is thought the state would buy up properties at the full unblighted market value, plus 10% (up to £47,000). For those within 60 and 120 metres of the line, again who do not wish to sell, the government would pay out a cash compensation of 10% of the market value, up to a maximum of £100,000. While those located within 120 and 300 metres would be offered between £22,500 to £7,500 on a sliding scale, based on distance from the line. The payments are said to be tax free.

Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin is quoted as saying: "I completely understand the concerns and anxieties of those living near the line and it is only right that those people are properly looked after.

"I believe this package of compensation and assistance will enable us to help people more. But I want to get it absolutely right, so I am asking for further views on some aspects before we finalise plans."

(CVS/JP)

Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

09 January 2009
Man In Hospital After Police Shooting
A man is in a serious condition in hospital after being shot by police in West Yorkshire. The 44-year-old man is being treated in Huddersfield Royal Infirmary for gunshot wounds, police have said. Firearms officers responded to a 999 call reporting an incident at a house in Brighouse, near Halifax, west Yorkshire, just after midnight.
08 May 2014
British Gas Freeze Prices
Centrica, the owner of the UK's biggest household supplier British Gas, has confirmed it does not plan to increase household bills during 2014. The company reduced its 2014 earning perspectives in a new update due the the lower average of a British Gas residential energy bill, which was nearly a 10% less than the last winter.
22 January 2009
Morrison Sales Up
Food retailer Morrison has trumped the Christmas sales of higher-profile rivals Tesco and Asda. Dubbed the UK's fourth biggest supermarket, Morrison said sales in the last quarter had increased by over 8%. Operation from more than 320 stores nationwide, it is predicted the retailer serves around 10 million customers every well.
13 October 2005
Northern Line tube line shut due to brake failure
Passengers who use the Northern Line tube service face major disruptions today after the service was suspended due to safety concerns. Yesterday, unions called for the line to be closed when a London Underground (LU) train which passed a signal at red experienced an emergency braking system failure.
09 January 2008
Scots Urged To Go Greener In 2008
Scots were today urged to do their bit for the planet's future by pledging to go greener in 2008. Minister for Environment Michael Russell said by signing up to one or more of the Scottish Government's 10 Greener Pledges, people would reduce their impact on the local and global environment.