Obstruction of roads and footways

It is an offence to obstruct the free passage of the highway.

Obstructions are objects which have been unlawfully placed on or which overhang the highway. Such obstructions are given by examples below:

• builders' skips
• scaffolding/hoardings
• builders materials
• temporary works including traffic lights
• overhanging tree branches, hedges
• mud/debris on the road
• mixing concrete/mortar on the highway
• unauthorised vendors/traders
• encroachment of highway boundaries
• discharge of water onto the highway
• plants and bushes
• illegal signs

If a person without lawful authority or excuse in any way wilfully obstructs the free passage along a highway, they are guilty of an offence. In such cases the Highway Authority has legal powers to enforce the removal of the obstruction. Please click on Highway Enforcement |for more details.

To report any obstructions, please use the contact details below:

 
Highways Helpdesk
Bedfordshire County Council
6th Floor
County Hall
Bedford
MK42 9AP

Tel: (01234) 228661
Email: highways@bedscc.gov.uk |