Compulsory Purchase and Compensation: an overview of the system in England and Wales.

Abstract

This paper provides an overview of the legal principles which govern the process of gaining compulsory acquisition powers in England and Wales and, in more detail, the circumstances under which compensation may be claimed. An indication is given as to the process of assessing compensation, although detailed valuations and procedures to be adopted in order to claim compensation are not provided. The paper concludes with a discussion regarding the equity of the current provisions, with illustrative examples, and the potential for reform, as well as a brief introduction to the proposed UK betterment tax - Planning-Gain Supplement.