Purchasing properties affected by large-scale construction projects is common practice, and is often carried out well in advance of work taking place.
A spokesperson for National Highways said the LTC would “improve journeys and bring significant benefits to people and businesses across the region”, but acknowledged there would be “an impact on properties along the route of the new road”.
“Through a comprehensive programme of consultation we have been able to significantly reduce the number affected by almost 70%, and reached voluntary agreements with many,” they said.
The spokesperson added that National Highways had been in touch “with all people with an interest in land affected by the project for almost a decade”, and was “committed to paying a fair market value to property owners.”