Delivering Diversion and Compensation Options
Acting on behalf of the landowner, BTS established opportunities for minimising a development loss of 40 acres on a large residential site due to the presence of a 132kV overhead line, by diverting the apparatus, while securing significant compensation as a contribution towards the cost.
Background
Outline planning permission for 89 units
Challenges
- 2.24km of 132kV double circuit overhead cable
- Loss of 40 acres and extensive linear corridor through site
- Network Rail involvement
- 65% of site undeveloped – loss of 563 units.
- Diversion costs in excess of £8 million
- Proximity of railway line
- Challenging topography
- Cost of re-submitting planning application
Solution
- Notices served and negotiations commenced
- Constraints identified as opportunities for arguing loss of land
- Assessment of Loss Report issued for claim in excess of cost of undergrounding line
Result
- Agreement reached for DNO to pay a significant contribution towards the costs.
- Detailed design route found and options considered regarding land loss and financial impact.
- Complex option agreement drawn up with landowner to deliver diversion.
