Compulsory purchase

Governments, councils and utility companies can serve landowners with a notice of a Compulsory Purchase Order, providing them with the legal right to buy or take rights over property that fall within a public or private construction project such as airport expansions, installation of electricity pylons and cables, flood defence works, housing developments, telecommunication sites, rail-or road-building projects, sewage, water or gas pipe schemes.

It can be a stressful and difficult time for a property owner or tenant if they are affected by a project carried out under compulsory purchase powers, and our specialist teams can help to secure a fair compensation deal and minimise disruption.

Compulsory purchase services

Compulsory purchase advice

Compulsory purchase orders operate under a complex legislative framework, and landowners face the challenge of understanding the extent of the acquiring authority's powers and their own rights, as well as determining when, how, and what compensation they can claim. Specialist advice is critical to ensure that authorities act within their powers and that any impact is compensated fairly.

Impact valuation assessment

Leveraging our local knowledge and broad nationwide experience in navigating complex compulsory purchase orders, we calculate the scheme's projected effects, including diminished enjoyment of residential property and potential relocation costs. We also consider any diminution in the value of retained land, an inability to work the farmland during and after the works, and any impact on wildlife or conservation schemes already in place

Minimising the impact of a Compulsory Purchase Order

We ensure that plans are implemented to keep the process as non-disruptive as possible. We often seek accommodation works to limit the adverse effects of compulsory purchase schemes, including temporary or permanent engineering measures such as building underpasses for land separated by new developments or planting trees to reduce traffic noise. We also help source alternative accommodation for residential or commercial needs and help mitigate business disruptions.

Compensation negotiation

Our experts review your Compulsory Purchase Order or statutory notice to determine the strongest compensation claim available to you. We engage with authorities early and provide detailed, evidence-backed submissions to ensure the best chances of succeeding in your claim. We can also advise on Blight Notices to force purchase early if devaluation has occurred due to the project.

Energy compulsory purchase

Many renewable energy projects qualify as Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects and can therefore obtain planning permission through the "NSIP" process, which grants developers compulsory powers. Our energy specialists advise land and property owners on negotiations with developers of third-party renewable energy projects wishing to compulsorily acquire interests in land and property.

Wayleaves and easements

We have extensive experience advising property owners and tenants on statutory easements, injurious affection of retained land, claims arising from land taken, and ancillary licences for contractors’ compounds and temporary working areas.

Large-scale infrastructure projects

The NSIP regime also applies to other large-scale infrastructure projects, such as major road, rail and water schemes, where our experts provide support and guidance to affected landowners.

Our knowledge, your rights

Everyone understands the need for robust infrastructure investments across the UK, but when your land is affected by a Compulsory Purchase Order necessary to complete the project, it can understandably be an emotional and draining experience. Our teams are here to ensure that authorities act only within their powers, that any impact is compensated fairly, and to support you through the difficult process to minimise any distress.