We have petitioned on farming issues related to the major infrastructure project and presented evidence in November to the Select Committee
In a letter this week, NFU President Meurig Raymond thanks HS2 for agreeing to an agricultural liaison officer, something we’ve asked from the outset.
However, we believe that many of the other assurances made by HS2 fall short of being a real solution for the farmers impacted.
One of the main petitioning points has been for farmers to be able to relocate agricultural buildings and farmhouses. Assurances so far do not meet the need for replacement buildings outside the Bill limits and the need for permitted development rights to be granted.
A further issue is a “duty of care” to all affected farmers, including HS2 liability for the actions of their contractors and sub -contractors. Promises of contractual monitoring do not go far enough.
Mr Raymond said: “The NFU is working closely with HS2 to achieve the best possible solution for land taken on a temporary basis and the problems that surface around this. Discussions are ongoing to try to make sure that this assurance and the detail under Schedule 15 in the Bill is understood by farmers and their agents. In particular, examples have been requested in regard to the economic test.
“The assurances on field drainage and soil management are a step in the right direction but still fall short as greater detail is needed to make sure that the issues faced by farmers once construction starts can be resolved once the project is completed.
“We’re pleased that HS2 are coming forward with these assurances, but we need to make sure thatthese assurances will address the issues and provide solutions for our members.”
HS2 to decimate Packington Moor Farm
What government must do:
- Implement a binding and comprehensive duty of care that sets standards and timescales for the conduct of HS2, its contractors and sub-contractors during construction.
- Appoint an independent ombudsman to swiftly resolve breaches to this duty of care.
- Incorporate a substantial programme of ‘accommodation works’ within HS2 construction plans to minimise long term impacts on farm businesses. This means ensuring farms are left in a strong viable condition and with appropriate infrastructure and access such as water supply, drainage and bridges
- Promptly pay enhanced compensation reflecting the dislocation, distress and income lost as a result of the project.
- Consult regularly and honestly with farmers and growers and their representatives throughout the project.