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Compulsory Acquisition Services

Expert CPO procedure guidance and order preparation including statement of reasons, preparation and professional written representations, rebuttals, and hearing representations along with all supporting plans and documents

Dalcour Maclaren specialises in supporting infrastructure projects involving Compulsory Acquisition through either Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPOs) or Development Consent Orders (DCOs). 

Our experienced team collaborates with developers, legal teams, local authorities and project directors to navigate the compulsory purchase processes for significant projects.

We have successfully delivered land services to more than 70 DCOs and more than 30 CPOs in the past seven years.

Having contributed to the resolution of more than 200 Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber) cases, our evidence delivery consistently meets the highest standards of legal scrutiny. In addition, a significant number of our team have given evidence at Public Inquiry and DCO hearings.

We also provide strategic advice on land assembly and work closely with landowners to facilitate negotiations and minimise objections, ensuring a seamless process. Our services are particularly relevant for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) in the energy and water sectors.

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We have delivered more in our space across the UK than anyone else and learnt from every experience. The computer says no, but we don’t. It’s not about spotting a problem, it’s about offering a solution to it.

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Our Services

CPO application & documentation

Written representations & submissions

Formal submission of written statements expressing concerns or support regarding CPO processes.

Rebuttal documentation

Expert response to objections and representations with comprehensive case building.

Statement of reasons

Professional preparation of statutory documents justifying compulsory purchase requirements.

Hearing & inquiry support

Hearing representations

Professional representation at CPO hearings, presenting evidence and addressing concerns.

Public inquiry support

Comprehensive support for CPO public inquiries, including evidence preparation and client representation.

Strategic CPO management

CPO procedure guidance

End-to-end CPO process management ensuring compliant statutory procedures.

Evidence production & case building

Professional evidence compilation and presentation supporting CPO applications.

Order document production

Production of land documents forming part of DCO and CPO applications, including management plans.

Advanced support services

SoGC Management

Drafting and engaging on Statements of Common Ground throughout examination and inquiry phases, ensuring all parties are on the same page and reducing potential conflicts.

Upper tribunal representation

Representing clients at the Upper Land Tribunal in complex compulsory purchase cases.

DCO & legal support services

Written representations & rebuttals

Formal submission of written statements expressing concerns or support regarding CPO processes.

Public inquiry support

Assisting clients during public inquiries, including evidence preparation, representation and objection addressing.

Expert witness services

Professional testimony in legal disputes related to DCO and CPO activities with MRTPI-accredited support.

A trusted partner

DM’s extensive experience and commitment to excellence in Compulsory Purchase Orders and Development Consent Orders have established us as a trusted partner for major infrastructure projects. Our proven track record in securing successful CPO confirmations, coupled with our expert legal and procedural guidance, ensures that your projects can navigate the complexities of land acquisition with confidence. 

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Our Service Specialist

Get in touch for more information on our Compulsory Acquisition services.

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Land & Property

Ellie Dakin

Associate Director
MRICS

Specialising in DCOs, land rights strategy and the negotiation of associated land interests to support infrastructure projects

Contact Ellie
  • 01

    Acquisition, consents and compensation

    At DM, we act as a specialist bridge between developers, landowners, regulators and communities. Our role is to move the project from concept to consent to completion without getting stuck in legal, planning and stakeholder deadlock.

    Learn more
  • 02

    Land referencing

    Identifying and analysing land interests

    Learn more
  • 03

    Planning & permitted development

    Expert planning and development services, including feasibility studies, pre-application enquiries, planning applications and Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs)

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  • 04

    Valuation

    DM’s team of registered Valuers complement our land assembly and acquisition services

    Learn more