Representation by BTF Partnership (BTF Partnership)
- Date submitted
- 31 March 2021
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
BTF Partnership are instructed to act on behalf of various freeholders and leaseholders affected by the NSIP. As a general rule, authority to acquire land compulsorily should only be sought as part of an order granting development consent if attempts to acquire by agreement fail. Currently we consider the level of engagement has been inadequate. It is a requirement to offer advice and assistance to affected occupiers in respect of their relocation and providing details of available relocation properties where appropriate. The Applicant has failed to adequately assist with relocation which we believe will result in the unnecessary extinguishment of business directly affected. The Applicant has failed to secure replacement environmental mitigation land and the project would directly affect circa 250 acres of land designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The applicant must satisfy the test that there is a compelling case in the public interest for land to be acquired compulsorily. The Applicant has failed to meet the statutory requirements, in particular, the statutory consultation carried out by the Applicant was inadequate.