The concept of public rights of way does not apply to inner London Local Authorities. In inner London boroughs all roads, pavements, footpaths etc. are defined in the following manner.
Public highway
These are roads and footpaths which are listed in the Highway Register as public highway. These roads and paths are maintainable at public expense.
Highway
Some roads and paths are listed as highway (not public highway). This means that the public has the right ‘to pass and repass’ over them, but the Council has no duty to maintain them. Any duty of maintenance lies with the land owner.
Private
Roads and paths listed as private are the responsibility of the landowner or frontagers. Roads and paths listed in the Highway Register as the responsibility of the Housing Division are to all intents and purposes private. The Housing Division can limit access to them in any way they feel appropriate (i.e. gating etc), and as the owner of the land the division is responsible for maintaining them.
If you wish to check the status of a path please contact us using the details above or check the Highway Register, by following the link on the right.
Enforcement against obstruction, fly tipping etc is carried out by the Council on those roads and paths which are public highway. If the road or path is private or non-maintainable highway it will be up to the landowner to clear any obstruction.
FAQs
How do I know if a footpath is public highway?
If you want to know whether the Council is responsible for a specific footpath please check the Highway Register or contact the Highway Maintenance Group using the details below.
The footpath at ... is blocked by vegetation/rubbish. Can the Council clear it?
If the path is listed as public highway in the Highway Register please contact the Council using the online Street Fault report form or phone us using the details below and we will arrange for the path to be cleared.
If the path is private or non-maintainable highway responsibility for clearing any obstruction lies with the landowner.