The claim is made by WKD Trained Dogs Limited, whose Staffordshire farm was compulsorily acquired as part of the High Speed Rail (West Midlands–Crewe) project. The principal issues relate to the “shadow losses” (i.e. the profits that would have been made but for the Scheme), and the extinguishment value (i.e. the value of the business when it was extinguished).

The Tribunal will hear witnesses of fact, expert canine evidence, and forensic accountancy evidence.

The hearing is expected to last five days.

Isabella Tafur and Jeffrey Chu, instructed by Town Legal LLP, represent WKD Trained Dogs Limited.

Mark Westmoreland Smith KC and Michael Rhimes, instructed by Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP, represent the Secretary of State for Transport.