Traffic Regulation Order Rectification: TRO 5 (Verge & Footway Parking, Southcote)

At Council on 15 October 2024, a summary of issues relating to certain Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) was reported (report available here) and a rectification process agreed (report available here). TROs underpin the restrictions that we can apply to adopted Highway land, including those related to parking, bus lane and no-entry restrictions. 

The agreed rectification process involves consulting on some new, permanent TROs, and amendments to other TROs, to address the issues identified.  

The restrictions proposed in this consultation relate to the Southcote area verge and footway parking restrictions.  

Through the enforcement action that they will enable, the restrictions proposed in this consultation are expected to address the issues that can be caused by inappropriate parking on the verges and footways as follow: 

•  Creation of accessibility difficulties for other users, such as pedestrians and wheelchair users; 
• As a consequence of the above, these users can be put at increased risks by having to navigate around these parked vehicles, such as having to walk in the carriageway; 
• Creation of visibility issues around junctions, driveways and pedestrian crossings; 
• Damage to the Highway, tree roots and utility equipment, risking injury / damage / loss of service as a consequence; and 
• Aesthetically and environmentally detrimental to the area, including rutted muddy verges. 

Should you wish to object to the proposed restrictions, or provide other comments, please respond to this consultation and provide your clear reasons. In accordance with the current Freedom of Information legislation, the Council may publish and/or disclose the entire content of any correspondence (including letter, forms or emails) sent in response to this consultation and such responses may be subject to public scrutiny.  

As previously stated in press releases, any existing signs related to the restrictions proposed in this consultation are not currently being enforced. The outcome of this consultation will be the sole determining factor in deciding whether these signs are retained or removed. The presence of current signage does not imply any predetermined outcome and all responses will be considered impartially to ensure a fair and unbiased decision making process.