‘Clear compensation advice is essential on HS2’: Commissioner

Deborah Fazan has produced a first report after taking on the role in January 2015.

The work provides a run through of her work so far, and what she hopes to achieve in the coming months.

As well as being released to the public, HS2 chairman Sir David Higgins will also be sent a copy, and asked to respond.

Mrs Fazen said: “It is vital that those who are eligible for the government’s property compensation and assistance schemes get clear information and know what they are entitled to. My role is to ensure that this happens.”

The report sets out some recommendations to enhance community engagement, and to better understand the communication needs of affected residents, so that they are able to easily access the compensation schemes available.

According to the government, the commissioner is continuing to monitor the implementation of the property schemes and will soon begin meetings with MPs whose constituencies the new railway will run through to learn more about the impact on communities.

She has also made some suggested amendments to the Residents’ Charter, largely for clarification. Following HS2 Ltd Board approval the revised Charter will be published online and distributed more widely.

The next report will be published later in the summer.