Quantuma’s Forensic Accounting team is recognised by solicitors, surveyors and Counsel as having one of the most experienced forensic accounting teams in compulsory purchase matters.
Having acted in more than 50 cases in this area we are a go-to choice for those instructing us, because of our significant expertise and credibility in this specialist area.
The work is split between acting for claimants and acquiring authorities, so we have a balanced view of how the process works which can be of great assistance in reaching a sensible and timely settlement.
Our experts have significant experience acting as both expert advisor and expert witness in compulsory purchase matters, where we are required to quantify the losses arising from either disruption to businesses or their ultimate extinguishment (either full or partial).
In particular, we are normally required to assist in identifying the information that is required to quantify or assess a claim, prior to analysing that information and preparing a detailed report of our findings. We are also skilled in considering wider issues in respect of claims, including the extent to which there has been appropriate mitigation or whether there has been an element of betterment.
We appreciate that the majority of CPO matters can be settled outside a formal process and are comfortable working with those instructing us to produce responsible and credible quantification of losses that can be clearly presented to the other side to try and resolve matters (including meeting with opposing experts and negotiating settlements in respect of accounting losses).
However, if matters progress to a formal hearing of the Upper Tribunal - Lands Chamber (or other forum), our partners have extensive experience in acting as an expert witness, can prepare robust and credible reports, and have been cross-examined on numerous occasions.
We have been instructed by acquiring authorities including the Greater London Authority, Transport for London, HS2, Liverpool City Council and Highways England. Claimants that we have acted for range from small local businesses (such as single unit retailers and car repair workshops) to national retailers and international manufacturers. The quantum of CPO claims that we have been involved with has ranged from low tens of thousands to around £100m.
