Heathrow Third Runway: What Homeowners Need to Know
Heathrow Third Runway: What Homeowners Need to Know
The proposed third runway at Heathrow Airport is a major infrastructure project that will significantly impact local homeowners and businesses. If your property falls within the scheme boundary or surrounding areas, you may be affected by compulsory purchase or suffer from property blight. Understanding your rights and available compensation is essential.
At Olden Property, we specialise in helping homeowners and businesses navigate the compulsory purchase process in advance and after the event. Tom Olden, principal at Olden Property, personally handles all cases, ensuring expert guidance and a single point of contact throughout the process.
1. The Heathrow Expansion: Current Status and Areas Affected
The third runway remains a priority for Heathrow Airport Limited (HAL), though the timeline has shifted due to legal challenges and the impact of COVID-19. Heathrow is reassessing its plans before submitting a revised Development Consent Order (DCO) to the Planning Inspectorate.
Expected Timeline (Subject to Change):
2024–2025 – Heathrow refines plans and launches public consultation.
2026 – Possible submission of revised DCO.
2027–2029 – Examination and approval process.
2030s – Potential construction begins (if approved).
The scheme will involve significant demolition in areas including:
Harmondsworth – A large portion of the village will be lost.
Sipson – Homes and businesses face demolition.
Longford – Entire village likely to be affected.
Other surrounding areas – Increased noise pollution and property blight.
2. Compensation and Property Schemes for Affected Homeowners
Homeowners within the scheme boundary and surrounding areas may be eligible for compensation under Heathrow’s voluntary purchase and compensation schemes (these schemes could change):
a) Interim Property Hardship Scheme (PHS)
Designed for homeowners needing to sell but unable to due to runway uncertainty.
Heathrow may buy the property at the unaffected open market value (excluding development value).
Eligibility requires proof of hardship (e.g., financial difficulties, medical reasons, or work relocation).
b) Compulsory Purchase Zone (CPZ) Compensation
Applies to properties within the designated compulsory purchase zone.
Eligible homeowners receive unaffected market value plus 25% home loss payment.
Additional compensation for Stamp Duty on a replacement home, legal fees, removal costs, and other disturbance costs.
Additionally, noise insulation schemes are available for those affected by increased aircraft noise outside the main compulsory purchase zone.
3. Understanding the Blight Process and Your Rights
Blight occurs when property values drop due to uncertainty surrounding large infrastructure projects like the third runway. If you are struggling to sell your home due to Heathrow’s expansion plans, you may be able to serve a Blight Notice to Heathrow Airport Ltd, requesting them to buy your property at full market value.
What You Need to Do Before a Blight Notice Can Be Accepted:
The property must be actively marketed for sale at a reasonable price.
Evidence of genuine attempts to sell is required (e.g., estate agent listings, marketing efforts, and viewings).
The property must be within the safeguarded area and have diminished value due to the proposed runway.
If the property remains unsold, a Blight Notice can be submitted to Heathrow.
How the Blight Process Works:
Eligibility – The property must meet the above criteria.
Serving a Blight Notice – The homeowner formally requests Heathrow to purchase the property at full market value.
Acceptance or Rejection – If accepted, Heathrow purchases the property with compensation. If rejected, appeals can be made through the Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber).
Compensation – Successful claims ensure homeowners receive full market value plus any applicable compensation for relocation and legal costs.
For homeowners facing property devaluation due to the expansion, understanding and navigating the blight process is essential.
5. How a CPO Surveyor Can Help – Olden Property’s Role
Compulsory purchase is complex, and securing fair compensation can be challenging. As a chartered surveyor specialising in compulsory purchase, Tom Olden personally manages each case, ensuring affected homeowners and businesses receive the compensation they deserve.
How Tom Olden Supports You:
Valuation & Negotiation – Ensuring you receive full market value and appropriate compensation.
Blight Notices & Appeals – Assisting with serving Blight Notices and challenging rejections.
Compensation Claims – Securing additional compensation for disturbance, relocation, and business losses.
Expert Representation – Acting on your behalf in negotiations with Heathrow Airport Ltd.
Why Choose Olden Property?
Specialist Experience – 20+ years of expertise in compulsory purchase and compensation.
Independent Advice – We work solely in your best interests, not the acquiring authority.
Direct Support from Tom Olden – Your case is handled personally by an experienced professional.
Maximising Compensation – Ensuring you don’t settle for less than you deserve.
Get Expert Advice Today
If your property is affected by Heathrow’s third runway plans, Olden Property is here to help. Contact Tom Olden today to discuss your situation and secure the compensation you’re entitled to.