HS2 route safeguarded as Govt pushes ahead with project

Date: 10/7/2013

The proposed HS2 rail route has been protected against future developments as the Government continues to push ahead with the scheme.

This process is known as safeguarding, and means that any plans which could compromise the line before it is laid will be blocked from going through in order to secure the HS2 route.

As a result of the move, Transport Secretary Partick McLoughlin revealed that homeowners who are set to be affected by the scheme will now have the opportunity to sell their properties as part of the Blight procedure.

Indeed, under the terms of the initiative, people can apply to have their home purchased by the Government for its standard market value - and they'll also be granted ten per cent of moving costs up to the value of £47,000.

Commenting on the latest developments, Mr McLoughlin said: "HS2 is moving from the drawing board towards construction. 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."

Posted by Sarah Bailey

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