HS2 Phase2a Safeguarding Lifted: What You Need to Know
Julia Trapp
posted on 18th January 2024
HS2 Phase2a Safeguarding Lifted
In a statement to parliament this morning, the Rt Hon Mark Harper MP has officially confirmed that the Government will lift the safeguarding directions for HS2 phase2a between the West Midlands and Crewe.
The Government has officially lifted safeguarding directions for the section between the West Midlands and Crewe. This means uncertainty is lifted for those affected, and development in the area can now proceed without objection from HS2 Ltd.
What was safeguarding?
Safeguarding is a planning tool used to protect land needed for major infrastructure projects like HS2. It requires local authorities to consult with HS2 Ltd on any development plans within the safeguarded area. This created uncertainty for residents, as it was unclear whether their plans would be approved.
Why has safeguarding been lifted?
The decision to lift safeguarding reflects the government’s commitment to “Network North,” a plan to transform British transport, shared in October 2023. This plan prioritises investment in the North of England, and HS2 Phase 2a was deemed not to be the best way to achieve this.
What does this mean for you?
If you live along the former HS2 Phase 2a route, you can now move forward with development plans without worrying about HS2 Ltd objections. This could mean anything from building a new home to expanding your business.
What about the West Coast Main Line connection?
Safeguarding remains in place for a small area of land near Handsacre. This is because this connection is crucial for allowing HS2 trains to reach Manchester, Liverpool, and Scotland. However, the impact on residents in this area will be minimal.
What about the support schemes?
The Rural Support Zone, Extended Homeowner Protection Zone, and Homeowner Payment schemes have been closed as they were designed to support those impacted by the planned construction of HS2 Phase 2a. However, the Need to Sell scheme remains open for now as a “safety net” for those who meet the criteria.
HS2 Phase2a Safeguarding Lifted: What happens next?
HS2 Ltd will be writing to the owners of properties affected by this update to explain what it means for them. The government will also be providing more details soon on the disposal of any property no longer needed for the HS2 project.
Overall, this is a positive development for residents along the former HS2 Phase 2a route. It provides much-needed certainty and opens up new development opportunities.
Julia looks after all of our marketing communications, printed material, design, branding, publications, digital marketing and advertising. She has worked across a number of industries in marketing roles and outside of work, if usually found on a netball court or coaching from the side lines.
