Government Lifts HS2 Safeguarding in North West Leicestershire

Government Lifts HS2 Safeguarding in North West Leicestershire

Today, the Government has formally lifted safeguarding directions on the former Phase 2b Eastern Leg of HS2, which included parts of North West Leicestershire.

The decision means that properties and land in Measham and Kegworth that had been under safeguarding protection, restricting development and creating uncertainty, are no longer subject to these planning constraints.

This move will allow the local area to move forward, ending years of uncertainty for residents, businesses, and local authorities who have had to operate under the shadow of HS2 route planning.

In addition, the Government has closed several property schemes in the affected area, including the Rural Support Zone, Express Purchase, Rent Back, and Need to Sell schemes. Any existing applications from residents will still be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Amanda Hack said:

“Many local organisations have contacted me about the opportunities that the safeguarding of areas in North West Leicestershire has been holding back. I’ve discussed these issues with the Secretary of State on multiple occasions over the last 12 months, and I’m now pleased that this land has been released.

This opens the door for new opportunities in the constituency, including the potential extension of the Ashby Canal near Measham, and gives the district council the confidence to complete its Local Plan without the uncertainty of having to exclude specific sites from consideration.”

Over 10% of the properties along the former Eastern Leg are in North West Leicestershire, these will now enter a disposal programme. Open market sales are expected to begin in 2026, but before then, former owners whose homes were bought under statutory blight will be given the first opportunity to repurchase their properties at the current market value.

The Government has pledged to manage the disposal of land and property with care, to protect local housing markets, ensure value for money for taxpayers, and minimise disruption to communities.