Cardiff law firm advises Welsh Government on Compulsory Purchase Order manual
A Cardiff law firm has assisted the Welsh Government with publishing a manual to help local authorities navigate the compulsory purchase order (CPO) process and effectively deliver public policy benefits.
A team of solicitors from the Pierhead Street firm worked on the manual which provides technical guidance and best practice when using a CPO – the power the government, councils or utility companies have in certain circumstances to buy a property or take a right over it.
The aim of the document is to remove the barriers to the use of CPOs by improving confidence and understanding along with dispelling myths on the process. By upskilling local authority colleagues the Government hopes to improve the development of public land for social housing and increase the reuse of empty properties in town centres.
Joann Bainton, a partner with Clarke Willmott who led the project, said: “We are extremely proud to deliver this important piece of work for the Welsh Government. It has been a labour of love but the finished document will go a long way in helping to facilitate economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic and encourage environmental, social and economic change in our communities.”
The project was completed by Joann along with colleagues on the planning team Chris Charlton, partner; Letitia Mandra, solicitor; and Alice Sydney, paralegal.
The manual outlines guidance on project management including an overview of the CPO process, how to make a CPO including step-by-step advice, engaging and negotiating with affected parties and making compensation payments.
Joann continued: “This was a hugely important piece of work for our firm and we look forward to providing the Welsh Government with further advice and assistance going forward.”
Clarke Willmott is a national law firm with offices in Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, London, Manchester, Southampton and Taunton.
For more information visit www.clarkewillmott.com
