Wakefield Council has a duty to protect the public rights on the road and footpath network.

Officers from time to time are required to deal with businesses and individuals who for whatever reason breach the statutory protection relating to highways.

The initial aim of officers is to assist businesses and others to comply with their legal obligations without unnecessary expense or hardship. However, ultimately, firm action will be taken against those who disregard the law.

The Council, as Highway Authority, has a duty:-

• to maintain adopted highways to safe and serviceable standards. 
• to protect the rights of the public to the use and enjoyment of such highways
• to ensure they are free from nuisance, danger, obstructions, unlawful stopping up, interference and encroachments.

The Council, as Street Authority, has:-

• a duty to co-ordinate works on the highway, in the interests of safety, public convenience, the protection of the structure of the street and the integrity of apparatus in it.
• powers regarding the timing of Street Works and the restriction of such works within 12 months of the completion of substantial road works.

Examples of work handled by Highways Enforcement:-

• street cafes
• 'A' boards
• burger vans & shops in lay-bys
• blocking of drives, pavements or roads
• vehicles driven over kerbstones
• public encroachment onto highways or pavements
• building sites
• mud on road

If you wish to notify us about any obstruction, encroachment of the highway or any problems please Contact Us