Firms fear for future with no HS2 compensation...

[dutchman]

The owners of Nailcote Hall Hotel said disruption caused by HS2 was putting off brides and grooms from booking their venue



Businesses along the HS2 route in Warwickshire claim they are being "pushed to the brink" by the construction project.

A petition has been launched on Parliament's website, calling on the government to urgently review compensation schemes for those suffering financially from the work.

Customers are being driven away by road closures, noise and dust, according to some of the businesses the BBC has spoken to.

In May, it was announced that the project would face further delays, with trains not starting to run until at least 2036. The Department of Transport was asked for a response to the petition but declined to comment.

Among those affected by the works is Nailcote Hall Hotel, in Balsall Common, which employs up to 80 staff and is a popular venue for weddings, party nights, golf and visitors to the nearby National Exhibition Centre.

Owners Rick and Sue Cressman said they have lost a third of their wedding business because of the disruption from HS2.

Sue Cressman said customers were discouraged by the diversions which could last up to a month at a time.

"It's very stressful, particularly when you know these people want to come here and if they have a massive diversion, sometimes into Warwickshire, they may think twice," she added.

Rick Cressman sad he had been told businesses could only apply for compensation once the project was completed, which could be as late as 2039 under the current estimated timeframe.

"I'd have to be 89 still working here before I get anything and I've got bills to pay now," he said.

An HS2 spokesperson said they were aware of the Cressman's request for compensation but said Nailcote Hall was not directly affected by HS2.

"The Hall is approximately 900 metres from the line of route and, as no land or property was required to facilitate the railway's construction, this does not qualify for statutory compensation," they added.

The petition was set up by the councillor for the Balsall and Berkswell ward, Heather Delaney, who is also deputy leader of Solihull Borough Council.

She wanted the government to launch a review in order to ensure fair, timely compensation to businesses impacted by construction, including looking at creating a new compensation scheme.

"The costs are now, not when the lines are up and running, it's not fair that they have to wait so long," said Delaney.