Compulsory Purchase & Compensation

Public and private bodies such as Government Departments, Local Authorities and Utility Companies can all exercise Statutory powers to compulsory purchase by means of a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) or exercise rights over land for a wide range of reasons; large construction and civil engineering schemes such as road schemes, pipelines, electricity pylons and cables etc. Compensation is paid to reflect the losses and disturbance caused by a CPO or statutory scheme on an owner or occupier’s property.

It is important to note that any claim will generally include professional fees incurred so there should generally be no cost to you as the claimant.

Negotiations about compensation begin at the very outset of a scheme and it is vital to seek clear professional advice and make an early representation to fully protect your interests. With expert advice and negotiating skills, Samuel & Son’s Professional Services team can help ensure you receive fair compensation and minimum disruption.

The principle of compulsory purchase compensation is to return the land owner or occupier to a financial position no worse or better than if the scheme had not happened and we calculate compensation under several heads of claim in relation to:

  • the value of any land taken
  • the cost of rectifying any damage caused by the works
  • loss of income/crops including any future losses
  • the depreciation in the value of any retained land where only part of the holding is acquired
  • clients time spent on the project
  • any professional fees incurred in preparing and negotiating a compensation settlement

Samuel & Son have extensive experience and expertise in this field having been involved in a number of major Local Authority road schemes including the Bexhill Hastings Link Road.  We have represented landowners and farmers in various fresh water and sewage pipeline/pumping station projects, oil pipelines, as well as electricity pylon claims against UK Power Networks and National Grid.

At Samuel & Son, claims are professionally prepared by our Chartered Surveyors and supported with detailed evidence.   We are well equipped to advise on, and handle every aspect of the claim procedure.

For further information or to discuss your specific situation please contact us on 01435 864020.