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UK News: Rishi Sunak scraps northern leg of HS2

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has scrapped the HS2 rail project except for the new London Euston to Birmingham line, which is already being built.

Speaking at the Conservative Party Conference, Sunak said: “HS2 is the ultimate example of the old consensus.

“The facts have changed, and the right thing to do when the facts change is to have the courage to change direction.”, added Sunak.

Originally, HS2 was due to run to Manchester.

Former PM David Cameron lamented the move, saying, “It will help to fuel the views of those who argue that we can no longer think or act for the long-term as a country; that we are heading in the wrong direction”.

Richard Flenley, partner at law firm Charles Russell Speechlys, speculated on the impact of the prolonged uncertainty in areas where HS2 was due to happen.

He said: “The impact on homeowners and businesses whose properties have been threatened by potential acquisition can not be forgotten. If the Northern Leg does not proceed, will those adversely impacted to date be compensated?

“To learn that part of the scheme will now be cancelled – after years of property owners feeling stuck in a state of limbo – will leave many feeling that this has all been for nothing.

“Whatever decision is made about HS2’s future and the Levelling Up Agenda, the adverse impact of HS2 has already been felt – and for some, they now won’t see any benefits.

“This calls into question how “fit for purpose” the law currently is at striking a fair balance between enabling major infrastructure projects and the interests of that business and homeowners who may (or may not) face compulsory acquisition of their properties at some point in the future”.

Jon Stott, group managing director of Ardent, a property and consent management practice, wondered if the UK could learn from its mistakes.

He said: “Aside from the macro factors, today’s decision is also a travesty for so many individuals and businesses, and it raises enormous questions about how we protect landowners and property owners whose land is earmarked to be acquired for significant projects in the future.

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