Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 39
39
Accepted
Department developing programme for disposing of HS2 surplus land and property
Recommendation
In February 2024, the previous Public Accounts Committee stressed the need for the Department and HS2 Ltd to develop a strategy for the disposal of land and property, and to balance the need for value for money for the taxpayer with the needs of those who have been affected. The Committee commented that the Department and HS2 Ltd did not yet know when they would dispose of land and property no longer needed.67 The Department reported in December 2024 that it was developing a programme to dispose of land that is surplus to requirements and has completed a small number of pilot sales.68
Government Response Summary
The government agrees with the recommendation and states that preparatory work is underway for a Phase 2 land disposal programme, including a portfolio review and identification of Crichel Down properties. It commits to providing updates on next steps to the Committee and in future six-monthly reports.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: Summer 2025 Preparatory work on a disposal programme for Phase 2 is already underway. As part of these preparations, the department is undertaking a review of the portfolio of land that was previously acquired for Phase 2. This includes the identification of properties subject to Crichel Down Rules. The department will write to the Committee to confirm the next steps for a disposal programme. The Department will take time to carefully develop a disposal programme that delivers value for money for taxpayers and does not disrupt local property markets. The department agrees to include the information requested by the Committee regarding the disposal programme in a future six-monthly report to Parliament. As part of this update, the department will include its approach to addressing future West Coast Main Line capacity issues and rail connectivity in the north, following the outcome of the spending review.