In a rare decision, powers of compulsory purchase sought by the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham have been denied following a Public Inquiry.

Richard Farr, Partner and compulsory purchase specialist represented one of the objectors to the Vicarage Field Compulsory Purchase Order. He identified grounds for objection, appointed counsel and a team of experts who presented evidence which contributed to the Inspectors decision not to confirm the order. Experts in town planning and transport provided evidence in support of the objection. Paul Moody, Partner within our London office also provided retail market evidence.

It was determined that there was a lack of substantive information in support of the viability of the scheme, that insufficient planning had been undertaken to determine the route of traffic and that there had been insufficient negotiation by the Acquiring Authority with the effected parties.

The Inspector deemed that the compulsory acquisition of the land proposed in the order was not proportionate or justified in the public interest.