Enforcing a compulsory purchase order (CPO)

Compulsory Purchase Orders can attract protests from environmental activists or landowners. This summary outlines the key steps for Local Authorities and public bodies to consider when enforcing access to land under a CPO.

The National Eviction Team, part of High Court Enforcement Group, has extensive experience in this specialist area of enforcement.

Acquiring authority responsibilities

Obtain the CPO warrant

The instructing client will be required to provide a sealed CPO warrant with a clear land schedule, confirming that all statutory notices have been served. This warrant gives the Authorised High Court Enforcement Officer (HCEO) authority to act without further court action.

Instruct specialist protester removal experts

It is important to choose an HCEO with proven experience in protester management, and one with the correct level of suitable insurance cover. Their teams may include specialist At-height, confined spaces (above or below ground) and lock‑on removal experts.

On instruction, clients will usually be required to complete a questionnaire so the HCEO can prepare a task-specific comprehensive risk assessment and operational plan.

Enforcement company responsibilities

Site recce

A skilled HCEO will also need to complete a site risk assessment to understand:

• Access routes and site layout
• Numbers of occupants, vehicles, machinery, and any livestock
• Any known or potential hazards

Operational plan

Using information gathered during the recce, the experienced HCEO will be tasked with creating a bespoke operational plan to safely and efficiently deliver possession of the land.

If required, Police support will be formally requested in advance.

Torts Act process & inventory of goods

A Torts Act notice procedure should be prepared to manage any possessions left behind. Enforcement officers will record items through inventories and video evidence to protect against claims. A Torts Act notice is issued so the former occupiers can arrange collection of their belongings within a set and reasonable time period.

Post eviction security

The HCEO will be able to advise on the most effective security measures to prevent re-entry to site. These measures could include steel shuttering, fencing, CCTV, alarms, concrete bollards, manned guarding, property guardians or K9 guarding units.

To find out more

If you would like to find out more about how we can support you with the enforcement of a CPO, including community engagement support, please visit the National Eviction Team website or call us on 03330 031919.