The Council has a duty to protect the public rights on the road and footpath network. The effectiveness of legislation in protecting the public is dependant on the compliance of others.
The highway inspectors are responsible for dealing with interference and obstruction of the borough's public footways and carriageways. This includes instances of both a legal and illegal nature.
Officers from time to time are required to deal with businesses and individuals who for whatever reason breach the statutory protection relating to highways. The initial aim of officers is to assist businesses and others to comply with their legal obligations without unnecessary expense or hardship. However, ultimately, firm action will be taken against those who disregard the law.
Staff ensure that the requirements contained in the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991, and its supporting Codes of Practice, including those for traffic management and reinstatements are carried out effectively and efficiently. Officers may deal with matters informally or formally and the action may lead to prosecution.
The team handles all licence applications for works involving obstruction or potential damage to the public footway or carriageway (i.e. where scaffolding, hoardings or building materials are involved) and conducts site meetings with applicants. Based on its evaluation, and on its own discretion, the inspector either approves the works, requests modifications to the plans, or denies permission altogether for the works to be carried out.