The Council, as Highway Authority, is responsible for the maintenance of the highway, including pavements and footways on all of the roads in the borough which are public highway. There is one exception to this and that is the Red Routes. Transport for London is responsible for the Red Routes including the A2, A20, A21, A205 (South Circular) and the A202.
Trip hazards on pavements are a key concern at all times whilst the problems of weeds, standing water and ice tend to be more seasonal.
Pavements, particularly those constructed of paving slabs, can suffer very badly from overriding vehicles. Please note: in the case of damage, it is important, if possible, to report the vehicle details/findings so that the Council can recover the full cost of repairs to the pavement.
When works are being undertaken on the highway (including the pavement/footway), the organisation, which may include utility companies, carrying out those works is responsible for ensuring there is a safe diversionary route for pedestrians and other traffic and a satisfactory reinstatement.
To report a defect on the pavement, please use the online Street Fault report form or alternatively, please contact CallPoint on 020 8314 7171.
FAQs
How do I report a defect on the pavement?
Please report any defect on our pavements by telephone to CallPoint on 020 8314 7171, or use the online Street Fault report form.
What is the council’s inspection regime for footways?
All roads and footways are inspected on a regular basis. The frequency of these inspections is dependent upon their level of use. The inspectors will then prioritise identified works, although budget limitations will mean that some works may be deferred to a future date. However if you are aware of any areas which you consider hazardous and in need of immediate attention, please contact Envirocall on 020 8314 7171 or use the online street Fault report form. Please give a precise location (e.g. an adjacent house number) if you can and the defect will be investigated.
What about pavement maintenance on housing estate roads?
Estate roads are not part of the public highway, they are privately owned by the housing division. Details of whether a road is maintained by the transport or housing division is contained in the Highway Register.
Maintenance of estate roads and traffic and parking issues on them are the responsibility of the housing division. The transport division is happy to offer advice to the director of housing on issues on estate roads but we cannot act without a formal request from housing. In the first instance we would recommend that you raise any issues you are concerned about with your neighbourhood office.
Pavement works materials have been left on site. Can the council get them removed?
We are grateful to any residents who let us know of instances of materials being left behind, that perhaps the highway inspectors have not seen. We can then ensure their prompt removal. If you wish to let us know of any materials left on site please contact CallPoint on 020 8314 7171, or complete the online Street Fault report form.
A contractor has dug a hole in the pavement. How can I find out who it is and how long they will be working?
If you want to find out who is working in your street please contact CallPoint on 020 8314 7171, or complete the online Street Fault report form.
How can I request a dropped kerb on a pavement?
Unfortunately the Council does not have the resources to ensure that there are dropped kerbs at all junctions in the borough. However, if there is a particular area where you are experiencing difficulty please let us know and we will do what we can to assist.
Please contact CallPoint on 020 8314 7171 or use the online online street Fault report form.