Farmers and growers will discuss high speed rail and what the next step will be for those who will see the new line cut through their businesses or pass close by.
The National Farmers’ Union has called the meeting for members and invited guests after the Government decided go ahead with the first phase of the HS2 project to link London with Birmingham. 
The high speed rail meeting will be held in the new NFU headquarters’ conference building, at Stoneleigh Park, on Friday, 10 February.
Justine Greening, Secretary of State for Transport, made the decision to press ahead with HS2 despite opposition from rural communities and NFU members who will see their businesses and homes severely impacted by the new line.
The first phase could be completed by 2026 and cost between £17 and £32 billion.
Following the January announcement farmers called for proper support and correspondence with Westminster and a swift, suitable compensation package and the NFU has set up the meeting to discuss these issues and more.
John Mercer, NFU regional director, said staff would be able to update members on the latest situation, potential impact and the union’s work to ensure the best possible deal for those affected.
He said: “I would encourage any affected members to attend as this will be an excellent opportunity for you to hear what happens now and receive expert advice.
“In our consultation response to Government, we set out what we expect in terms of compensation for land purchase, in addition to an enforceable code of practice that is in place during the construction phase.
“We have met several times with HS2 and discussions are on-going to talk mitigation and compensation which the Government must offer as part of the line’s construction.
“We are also working to ensure the Government sticks to its pledge to do all it can to offer assistance and support to those affected by the route.
“This must include fair compensation to ensure that those living and working in the countryside are not disproportionately impacted.”
Staffordshire farmer Robert Lockhart, of Drayton Bassett, who will see some of his land severed by HS2, welcomed the meeting with the NFU to discuss the next steps. 
He said: “Potentially many farm businesses will be disrupted by HS2 and there’s more disruption to come in the months and years ahead.
“This meeting will give us a chance to air our views and get the latest information from the NFU on the Government’s plans and what the next step is.”
The NFU is currently the main farming organisation in the country representing farmers’ interests over the high speed line.
NFU Deputy President Meurig Raymond will give the welcome and introduction and Andrew Clark, NFU head of policy, will speak about the route and update farmers on the latest announcements over high speed rail.
Tom French, of NFU panel firm BTF, rural and commercial chartered surveyors will give members an insight into HS1 and the reality of what happened while NFU rural surveyor Louise Staples will talk about HS2 surveys and blight compensation.
Tax issues will be addressed by NFU advisor Michael Parker and business planning and succession will be tackled by Roger Bedson, of NFU panel firm Hinson Parry.
A buffet lunch will be served at noon and the meeting will start at 1pm.
For further details or to book please contact your group secretary or call the NFU West Midlands regional office on 01952 400500.
No comments have been made.