The department has stated that the compensation would be beyond statutory requirements. Actions proposed by the Department of Transport include a series of measures designed to provide peace of mind for property owners above tunnels. For example, before and after surveys at Government expense and a ‘settlement deed¹, which will guarantee that HS2 would be liable for any damage caused by tunnelling.
In addition, the government has pledged to buy any owner-occupied home in the ‘safeguarded area’, along with additional compensation of up to 10 per cent. This covers the space within 60m of the planned route, and includes 338 homes that will have to be demolished to make way for the first phase of the rail line.
However, protest groups have argued the planned route, stating it would damage an area of natural beauty. In addition, opponents have also challenged the economic argument, suggesting the costs will be greater while the benefits will be lower than forecast.
Phase one of the GBP 33bn (USD 53bn) high-speed rail link, between London and Birmingham, is due to start operating in 2026. The first phase of HS2 will include a connection to mainland Europe via the Channel Tunnel. On completion of HS2 the network will include a direct link to Heathrow.
