HS2 – important advice for shoots

11 January 2012

What’s it all about?

A high-speed rail network HS2 has been approved by the Government. It will start in London and split into two routes in the vicinity of the M42/M6 interchange, with one route heading into Birmingham and the other route continuing north and ending near Lichfield. 

Click here to view the HS2 route

Click here to find out more about HS2

My shoot will be affected – what do I do?

BASC recommends that all shoots with a documented interest in land which could be acquired by compulsory purchase instruct an expert land agent in compulsory purchase and compensation matters. 

The Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV) is a national specialist professional body. CAAV members are agricultural and rural valuers who provide professional advice and valuation expertise on issues affecting the countryside which includes compulsory purchase. There is a “find a valuer” search area on the CAAV website.

Click here to find a valuer on the CAAV website

If instructed, the expert would then represent the shoot to ensure its financial loss is recovered. Please note the expert, although acting for those who will be affected, will in the majority of cases have their fees paid for by the acquiring authority.

A mistake a lot of affected landowners and occupiers make is not appointing an expert and therefore missing out on being properly represented throughout the process. It is important that you properly document all shoot leases, income and expenditure as compensation will only be paid on evidence produced.

What is BASC’s position on the HS2 rail network?

BASC does not have a view on the project itself. Our interest is to help make sure that shoots which are affected utilise the professional advice available to them.  Paul Williamson, BASC's Rural Land Development Manager, would be interested to hear from you if your shoot is affected by the route.This will help us to build up a national picture of the extent of the impact on shooting interests.

BASC is available to help advise any members worried about what to do next. Contact Paul Williamson for further advice.

Go to Key Issues