Owners could be forced to sell land to speed up Oxford to Cambridge corridor project

People who try to block the sale may be forced to sell up anyway

Landowners could be forced to sell their land as part of the Oxford to Cambridge corridor project, according to the Treasury. The Government announced today (Tuesday, March 17) that Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves is expected to double funding for the project.

Up to £800 million is now available for buying new land and building infrastructure to kickstart the development. As part of this, landowners blocking or insisting on unreasonable demands may have this land acquired with compulsory powers.

This is to ensure the project can move and progress at pace. Chancellor Reeves said: “We’re building corridors of growth and flinging open the doors of opportunity for every part of Britain.

“From the great northern cities to the cutting edge labs of Oxford and Cambridge, we are betting on Britain’s regions to power the next wave of innovation and growth. We are not repeating mistakes of the past. This is the right economic plan in an age of uncertainty.”

The Chancellor is also expected to share plans for a new Development Corporation for Greater Oxford to get rid of red tape stopping regeneration in the area, and therefore boost jobs and growth.

This follows the launch of the Greater Cambridge Development Corporation earlier this year. Dan Thorpe, CEO of Cambridge Ahead said: “Cambridge, the UK’s most innovative city, can deliver the breakthroughs, companies, and jobs that drive UK growth and productivity.

“Our members, the city’s leading employers, tell us that Government backing and investment are vital tailwinds that support this ambition – and today’s announcement of further funding is very good news.

“The focus now must be on turning ambition into action, investing wisely and at pace, and ensuring Cambridge remains one of the world’s best places to do business, live and work.

“Whether it’s OxCam or the Northern Growth Corridor, clusters in different regions are connected by innovation, and it is welcome that Government sees this so clearly. The Government’s backing will create a ripple-effect of innovation, jobs, and growth across the UK.”

Paul Bristow, mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough said there is the “real opportunity to unlock the full potential of the Oxford to Cambridge growth corridor”.

He added: “Our Local Growth Plan sets out how Cambridgeshire and Peterborough will play its full part — backing innovation, improving infrastructure, and making sure growth delivers for residents. My priority is simple: to make our area healthier, wealthier, and happier, and this investment helps us get there faster.”