Are you being rail-roaded by HS2?

There is no doubt that HS2 is a controversial project but whether you are for or against its rapid progression through the countryside, it is important to seek guidance if your woodland is affected.

There are many aspects to consider, not just the impact to timber volume as part of the route clearance but also the availability of access and the overall appeal of the woodland that remains.  Other factors include how the site access will be created and whether any temporary roads used for construction could be retained for later timber haulage, what type of route is being taken, whether this is a cutting, embankment, tunnel etc and the overall expected timeline for the construction/access.

In several cases along HS2’s route, woods are being crossed, leaving two parcels of land with the railway slicing through them.  If this happens to you, you need to ensure that you can access both halves of the woodland and that this access will be of a standard that allows machinery to complete timber harvesting operations.  You will also need to ascertain what will be left, whether either parcel will be able to meet its initial objective, either as amenity woodland or a commercial forest.

At Tustins we are here to help owners understand the value of their woodlands and advise on the financial impact of a compulsory purchase on the surrounding land to help you determine the best path and negotiate effectively with the government.