Government Departments, Regional Development Agencies, Local Authorities and Utility Companies, to name but a few, all have statutory powers to compulsorily purchase land or rights over land. Many important schemes for urban regeneration, pipelines, roads and other civil engineering projects require the exercise of such powers.

With most Partners having worked in both the public and private sectors, the firm has an unrivalled collective experience in the law and practice of compulsory purchase from 'both sides of the fence', including:

• Sound knowledge of the various and often detailed statutory procedures
• Provision of advice to those considering compulsory purchase
• Preparation of objections to Compulsory Purchase Orders and the like
• Representation on behalf of objectors at CPO inquiries
• Negotiation of scheme improvements and accommodation works
• Preparation and negotiation of compensation claims
• Resolution of compensation disputes at the Lands Tribunal

Compulsory Purchase Consultancy

When acting for clients whose property interests face compulsory acquisition, P Wilson & Company will always seek ways in which clients can best protect their interests and, where possible, identify opportunities of which clients might take advantage.

When acting for acquiring authorities, P Wilson & Company can adopt a proactive approach where it is the clients' best interest. This may include negotiating the purchase of property interests by agreement, advising on scheme improvements and accommodation works in order to mitigate adverse effects and resulting compensation without the expense of compulsory powers, as well as being able to offer a project liaison service (see Project Delivery).

Where land that was compulsorily purchased is no longer needed by the acquiring authority, there are procedures by which the land can be offered back to the previous owners; known as 'Crichel Down Rules'. P Wilson & Company has successfully navigated these complicated and often overlooked procedures to the benefit of clients.

Compensation

With the exercise of compulsory purchase powers comes the right for those whose property interests are affected to claim compensation. This is a specialist area of valuation practice and requires a thorough knowledge of relevant statute and case law.

Whether preparing, submitting or negotiating compensation claims on behalf of claimants, or negotiating claims on behalf of acquiring authorities, the expertise and experience which partners in P Wilson & Company have gained in numerous Compulsory Purchase Schemes of different types over the years, will be employed to the best interests of the client.

Where compensation claims fail to be settled by negotiation, a reference to the Lands Tribunal may well be necessary. We can case manage such a reference or provide expert valuation evidence as necessary.

Utility Easements and Wayleaves

We provide a complete service to landowners and occupiers onto whose property Utility Companies and others take statutory rights of entry for the construction of pipelines, sewers, electricity powerlines and the like, including:

• Pre-contract negotiations regarding Access Routes and Accommodation Works
• Pre-entry Records of Condition
• 'Troubleshooting' during the construction phase
• Reinstatement works
• Preparation, submission and negotiation of compensation claims
• Lands Tribunal or arbitration appearances