Roger Hannah & Co have had a number of Blight Notices accepted for phase 1 of HS2. This demonstrates that the Government is beginning to press ahead with acquisitions to bring forward the scheme.
With regards to having a Blight Notice accepted, the HS2 website sets out the following criteria to consider when applying:
- Q1. Do you have a qualifying interest in the property that you wish the Secretary of State for Transport to buy?
- Q2. Is your property partly or wholly within the safeguarded area?
- Q3. Have you made all reasonable endeavours to sell your property?
To qualify to serve a Statutory Blight Notice, you should be able to answer yes to all of the above questions. However, the Blight criteria for HS2 are being relaxed, with the process being referred to as “Express Purchase”.
Express Purchase for Phase 1
If your property is within the safeguarded zone, you may qualify for an express purchase. Under this scheme, the Government will exercise its discretion by accepting the Blight Notice.
Without requiring the owner to demonstrate reasonable endeavours to sell the property.
Without regard to whether the property would be needed for the construction or operation of the railway, provided the property is wholly within the safeguarded area.
Our most recently submitted and accepted application was accepted within a month of submission.
If your property is affected and you would like to get more information about submitting a Blight Notice, please do not hesitate to contact us.