Development safeguard introduced along HS2 route

ANOTHER obstacle in the way of the HS2 high-speed rail project has been removed with the Government acting to protect the first phase of the route from future development.

As part of the first phase of constructing the line from London to Birmingham, transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin has announced the “safeguarding” of the route.

This means local authorities will now have to consult with the company overseeing construction, HS2 Ltd, about any development within the safeguarded area.

McLoughlin said: “Safeguarding is an important milestone for homeowners and for planning purposes.

“It shows we are determined to deliver this once-in-a generation opportunity to drive growth, generate jobs, and secure our country’s future prosperity.”

In an associated development, homeowners living near the route of the high-speed rail link will now be able to ask the Government to buy their property.

Homeowners will get the “unblighted” market value of their property, plus 10% (up to £47,000) and moving costs.

The £42.6bn HS2 project will link London to Birmingham by 2026, with branches to Manchester and Leeds, via Sheffield, planned by 2032.