Obstructions on the highway (PS 8/3)

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Purpose of policy

East Sussex County Council (ESCC) recognises the vital role played by the local highway network. The purpose of this policy is to control the obstruction of the highway so as to minimise the inconvenience and danger to users.

In carrying out this policy ESCC will meet its statutory obligations and will also support the Council’s Priorities, Local Transport Plan and Highway Service Outcomes.

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Policy statement

  1. The Traffic Manager shall issue, where appropriate, statutory licences permitting the following obstructions:
    a) Temporary Building Works, for example deposit of building materials, parking of builders’ skips, erection of scaffolding/hoardings etc
    b) Temporary Highway Obstructions, for example private drain/sewer connections etc (but see 'PS 4/3 Temporary traffic regulation orders' for Statutory Undertakers Works)
    c) Permanent Highway Furniture, for example roadside seats, bus shelters (see also PS 4/23)
    d) Amenities on certain highways as provided for under Section 115 (a) to (k) of the Highways Act
  2. A statutory notice shall be served, where appropriate, upon the owner of overhanging trees/hedges, projecting roots etc, requiring removal of the obstruction. Subsequent action shall be taken, if necessary, to secure the removal.
  3. A statutory notice shall be served, where appropriate, upon the owner of trailers, caravans etc, or any other object causing an obstruction on the highway, requiring removal of the obstruction. Subsequent action shall be taken, if necessary, to secure the removal.
  4. Action shall be taken, where appropriate, to secure the removal of unauthorised obstructions, for example posts, chains, stones, advertising boards, merchandise etc, erected or placed by private individuals.
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Supporting information

  • Highways Act 1980
  • New Roads and Street Works Act 1991
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Version control

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Date of last review

August 2025

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