The CPA National Conference 2025
Policy, Reform and Legislation
The Compulsory Purchase Association's National Conference is the premier networking and CPD event in the CPA calendar and indeed in the wider compulsory purchase and compensation sector. With a wide ranging programme and pre-eminent set of speakers, If you do CPO work, this is a must attend event for technical knowledge, sector updates and networking.
It seeks to brief members and non members on key matters connected with the practice of compulsory purchase and compensation.
Book your choice of attendance below: either in person at Clifford Chance, or a virtual place.
Start Date | Venue | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
10 July 2025 | Clifford Chance, London | £310 | BOOK |
10 July 2025 | Virtual Seminar | £310 | BOOK |
Note: All prices are to be paid in GBP and are subject to VAT at the prevailing rate
Booking Note for CPA Members: The CPA discount code needs to be added during the booking process.


Speakers
- John Sayer, Head of Regeneration, Ardent; Chair of The CPA
- David Holland, Immediate Past Chair of the CPA and Partner, Squire Patton Boggs (UK) LLP
- James Neil MRICS, Managing Director, Dalcour Maclaren
- Bruce Pollard, Head of Property (Electricity Distribution), National Grid
- Daisy Noble, Barrister, Francis Taylor Building; Vice Chair of the CPA
- David Baker FRICS FCILT MCIArb, Partner, Baker Rose Ltd
- Sam Burstall, Senior Associate, Herbert Smith Freehills
- Zoe MacDonald, Associate, Herbert Smith Freehills
- Elizabeth Stokoe, Professor of Social Interaction, Loughborough University
- Liz Neate, Director, Deloitte
- Richard Turney KC, Barrister, Landmark Chambers
- Tom Hacker, Senior Director, Head of Planning & Engagement, Ardent
- Katie Kempthorne, Senior Associate, Clifford Chance LLP
Programme
Welcome & Introduction by Conference Chair - A state of the Nation Address
Planning and Infrastructure Bill
- What are the key features it includes in respect of CPO and land assembly?
Rewiring the Grid, Electricity Transmission (Compensation) Act 2023 and The Role of CP in delivering land for the renewal energy revolution
How Meaningful Engagement De-Risks CPO Projects and Builds Public Trust
This session will explore the contrasting directions in government policy - reducing consultation under the DCO regime while enhancing community engagement requirements in CPO guidance. It will focus on how early, meaningful consultation isn’t just compliance but a strategic tool to de-risk projects, reduce objections, and build trust.
- The new landscape of engagement – Exploring recent policy changes and their implications
- The case for early engagement – How proactive consultation reduces risks and delays
- Building trust and positive perception – Positioning projects as collaborative and beneficial
- Driving projects forward through engagement – Practical strategies to integrate engagement into project planning
The Risks to having your CPO Confirmed and Failing Post Confirmation
- The evolving expectations on negotiation
- The changing culture in PINS
- Greater scrutiny
- Viability
- Inertia in the planning process;
inertia beyond the first resolution
- Changes to the scheme
- Change of political leadership
How Changing Words Changes Outcomes
- When the outcome is defined, and negative, how can communication make things better – or worse?
- How can the science of conversation identify the components of the art of conversation?
- How can CPO practitioners build better communications into meetings where clients are involved
Case Review