The East West Rail (“EWR”) project is a proposed rail connection between Oxford, Milton Keynes, Bedford, and Cambridge. It aims to revive and extend the Varsity lines, promising reduced travel times, boosted local economies and decreased road congestion. However, as with any major rail infrastructure project, it raises a pivotal question: will it benefit the region or mar its scenic countryside and cause unnecessary stress for local landowners?
EWR will be delivered through multiple phases with varying completion statuses. The initial phase - completed in December 2016 - revitalised the line between Oxford and Bicester Village and included the refurbishing of stations and the implementation of a new service by Chiltern Railways. The delivery of future sections of EWR will involve the Development Consent Order (“DCO”) process. Given the nature and status of the project, the implementation of a DCO is the only viable option for land assembly and the delivery of the scheme. The impact of a DCO application could be considerable, with safeguarding directions in place to control any grant of planning permission, over land that may be needed for the scheme.
Nevertheless, as the project progresses through its various phases, it poses challenges, particularly concerning the rights of local landowners and occupiers. For landowners, understanding the nuances of blight, including statutory rights and potential financial repercussions, is essential.
The Newmark Compulsory Purchase and Compensation team can advise on all of the above matters, so please do contact us if you have any questions.
