Private streets

A private street is a street that is not maintainable by the Highway Authority. Streets that are unadopted are generally in a condition not meeting the standard of adopted streets. The responsibility for private streets lies with the street owners. These are usually the people who live on the street. If you wish to know the adoption status of a road then please contact the Highways Helpdesk, contact details below:

How do I report a private street that is unsafe?

This is usually the responsibility of the owner (usually the original developer of the frontager). If the problem is thought to be a 'danger' (for example a deep hole in the road suddenly appearing) Bedfordshire Highways can arrange to make safe by placing barriers or road closures around the hazard, and the owner will be charged for this. However, the permanent remedials are then to be carried out by the owner/s.

How do I get a private street adopted?

To get a street adopted the street must be constructed to adoptable standards. The costs of constructing a street to adoptable standards must be met by the street owners/residents. The Council does not have a budget for this and cannot offer any financial help.

Please contact the helpdesk for further information:

Highways Helpdesk,
Bedfordshire County Council,
6th Floor,
County Hall,
Bedford,
MK42 9AP
Tel 01234-228661
email highways@bedscc.gov.uk |