Liverpool-to-Manchester rail link land row heads to High Court
Summary
Bridgemere Group and Castle Green Homes have been granted permission to challenge a Department for Transport direction that has delayed a 330-home scheme in Warrington. The dispute centres on land that may be needed for the proposed Northern Powerhouse Rail route between Liverpool and Manchester, with the developer arguing the DfT’s approach was unlawful and avoided statutory blight provisions.
Why it matters
The case highlights how proposed transport infrastructure can affect residential development sites, planning decisions and land assembly risk. Surveyors advising on development land, valuation, or planning constraints will need to understand the implications of safeguarding, moratoriums and potential blight.
Key points
- Castle Green Homes planned a 330-home scheme at Thelwall Heyes, Warrington.
- The Department for Transport directed the council not to grant permission for six months, later extended to 30 October 2026.
- Warrington Council voted unanimously to approve the scheme, but it cannot be implemented while the direction remains in place.
- The land is on the potential route of the proposed Liverpool-to-Manchester rail line, part of Northern Powerhouse Rail.
- A judge has allowed the developer to challenge the DfT direction in the High Court.
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