Is Your Land Under Threat Of Compulsory Purchase? How To Navigate The Process.

Many authorities have powers to compulsorily acquire land, in connection with development projects that are being brought forward in the public interest. Those "acquiring authorities" can use their powers to permanently acquire land, but can also acquire rights over land and rights to occupy and use land temporarily. For landowners, understanding the implications of such powers and how and when to respond is essential.

Understanding DCOs and CPOs

Generally, a developer wishing to bring forward a project would need to obtain planning permission from the local planning authority under the Town & Country Planning Act 1990 (TCPA). If the developer also needs to acquire land in the ownership of a third party, then a separate compulsory purchase order (CPO) may be necessary. The local planning or other relevant authority may make a CPO where certain tests are met (including as to the public interest).