July 17, 2010
Homeowners whose house prices have plummeted due to overhead planes are to be awarded £9million in compensation by Manchester Airport.
Since the airport built a new runway in 2001, more than 300 residents in Knutsford and Mobberley have been demanding compensation from airport managers. Additional flight paths over the sleepy villages have reportedly led to thousands of pounds being wiped off property values and a swift reduction in the quality of life.
Solicitors acting for the residents’ group took their gripes to the Land Tribunal, an independent specialist judicial body established to resolve land disputes, arguing that for nine years fumes and noise from flights have severely affected house prices and buyer demand in the surrounding area.
However, before the tribunal was due to hear complaints in September this year, an agreement has been struck between the airport’s lawyers and residents, guaranteeing millions of pounds in compensation.
“We have reached agreement and are in the process of making various recommendations to our clients concerning payments following a complex and lengthy legal process,” the group’s solicitor told the Manchester Evening News.
“It has taken a lot of time and effort on both sides to reach this position and we are pleased that local residents will now receive their compensation, without having to go through a lengthy trial in the Lands Tribunal.”
Complaints were filed under the Land Compensation Act 1973, and, while many are still outstanding, it is believed payouts will begin in autumn.
“To help to ensure that this [compensation] is paid swiftly, and avoid further protracted legal discussions, we have agreed a solution which covers the loss in property value, interest since the claims were lodged, legal fees and experts’ costs,” added an airport spokesman.
“Since this process began local residents who could demonstrate an effect on the value of their property caused by Runway Two have been encouraged to put evidence forward so that we could consider and settle their claims.”
With new runways being built or proposed at several major airports throughout Britain, claims such as these could become more common in the future. Homeowners who have undergone similar disturbances are encouraged to seek legal advice as soon as possible.
