The NFU has secured a number of "crucial victories" for its members affected by Phase 2a of HS2, including interim payments for temporary possession of land.
The key wins for affected farmers and landowners on the route will help provide essential assurances and benefits, according to the NFU.
One of the key wins are interim payments to be made every three months, six months or annually following a claim for compensation if land is temporary possessed.
The announcement follows the NFU’s evidence to the High Speed Rail Bill Select Committee earlier this week. Talks with HS2 secured other key wins, including:
• Notice of entry where HS2 will use reasonable endeavours and notify landowners of the expected quarter of the calendar year in which land is planned for occupation, and for a likely time duration contractors will be on the land.
• A farmer may make a written request to HS2 to exercise powers of permanent acquisition for land required for the railway line and mitigation habitat creation.
• HS2 will provide an alternative supply of water, if a private water supply is affected by construction.
• HS2 has agreed to carry out aftercare of soils for five years, with the possibility of a further five, including covering the cost.
During its evidence session to the Select Committee, the NFU also argued for a standard notice of three months before temporary possession is taken, that interest must be added on late advance and final compensation payments, and for HS2 to use resources from commercial quarries rather than create borrow pits on farmers’ land.
'Fair treatment'
NFU Vice President Stuart Roberts said the wins secured are an "important step" in ensuring farmers receive fair treatment and appropriate assurances from HS2.
“This project has already created considerable uncertainty for our members and has the ability to severely impact the viability of their businesses for years to come, so securing these assurances early in the process is incredibly important,” Mr Roberts said.
“In order for affected farms to continue their core business of producing food for the nation, productive, versatile agricultural land needs to be protected for its primary use. It is key that HS2 negotiates directly with farmers on the most appropriate locations for mitigation of habitat, balance ponds and flood areas.
Mr Roberts added: “Communication with farmers and growers is vital during a project like this and regular consultations must take place to ensure farms have the appropriate means to continue running productive, profitable and competitive businesses, including access to severed land as a result of construction.”
