The NFU’s petition, due to be presented to the High Speed Rail Bill Select Committee, also includes demands for HS2 to only take land that is necessary for the construction of the line itself and not to be taking the most versatile agricultural land out of production for the creation of habitat mitigation.
*WATCH AGAIN*
Watch the session from Tuesday 18 November below:
*WATCH AGAIN*
Watch the session from Wednesday 19 November below:
NFU President Meurig Raymond said: “We have worked to ensure that our members are treated fairly in this process, and will continue to do so. Crucially, it is essential that HS2 Ltd. negotiate directly with farmers on the most appropriate location of mitigation habitat, balance ponds and flood areas.
“It’s important to remember that the prospect of HS2 has already created considerable uncertainty for our members and this will be looming over them for many years to come. Therefore, the NFU will be pushing for prompt and enhanced compensation for dislocation, distress and loss of income to try and minimise that uncertainty.”
Farmers and landowners who have submitted petitions on their own behalfhave been and will be presenting evidence to the Select Committee individually. The NFU hosted a workshop in September to support member petitioners, and to help them understand the process so that they could adequately prepare for their evidence-giving.